Production Control / Purchasing Manager

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Production Control / Purchasing Manager to oversee material planning, purchasing activities, inventory flow, and shipping/receiving operations within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role will lead the Production Control department while managing both productive and MRO purchasing to ensure uninterrupted operations and efficient supply chain performance.

The ideal candidate will be systems-oriented, highly organized, and possess strong communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with all levels of the organization. This individual must be comfortable balancing strategic planning with daily floor-level engagement and operational support.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage Production Control, Purchasing, Shipping, and Receiving functions
• Oversee material planning and procurement activities for both production materials and MRO supplies
• Ensure timely ordering, tracking, and delivery of materials to support production schedules and customer demands
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with suppliers to minimize shortages and excess inventory
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships while negotiating pricing, lead times, and service expectations
• Collaborate closely with Operations, Production, Quality, and Engineering teams to ensure alignment on scheduling and material availability
• Manage shipping and receiving processes to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and on-time deliveries
• Utilize ERP/MRP systems to drive scheduling, inventory management, purchasing, and reporting functions
• Analyze production and inventory data to identify trends and opportunities for process improvement
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on material flow, inventory accuracy, and operational efficiency
• Ensure compliance with company procedures, safety standards, and customer requirements
• Communicate effectively across all levels of the organization, from leadership to floor personnel 

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Manufacturing, or related field preferred
• 5+ years of experience in Production Control, Purchasing, Materials Management, or Supply Chain leadership within manufacturing
• Strong experience with material planning, inventory management, and purchasing operations
• Experience overseeing shipping and receiving functions
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and adapt to changing priorities
• Hands-on leadership style with a strong operational presence

Preferred Skills

• Experience in automotive or high-volume manufacturing environments preferred
• APICS or supply chain certifications are a plus
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
• Strong negotiation and vendor management experience
• Ability to balance strategic planning with daily operational execution