Supply Chain Manager
Confidential Retained Search | Metal Fabrication Manufacturing
A privately held metal fabrication manufacturer is seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager to lead end-to-end supply chain operations in a high-mix, low-to-mid volume manufacturing environment. This role oversees production planning, purchasing, inventory management, warehousing, logistics, and supplier performance, with accountability for material availability, cost control, on-time delivery, and compliance.
The ideal candidate brings manufacturing turnaround experience, strong ERP/MRP capability, and the ability to operate effectively at both strategic and hands-on levels within a fabrication-driven operation.
Role Scope & Responsibilities
Planning & Execution
Plan and coordinate purchasing, production planning, inventory, warehousing, and distribution to support fabrication schedules and customer commitments.
Direct the movement and control of raw materials, WIP, and finished goods, including plate, sheet, tube, bar, and fabricated components.
Align demand forecasting and production planning with fabrication capacity and customer requirements.
Optimize inventory levels to reduce excess, scrap, and obsolescence while maintaining uninterrupted production flow.
Procurement & Supplier Management
Lead strategic and tactical purchasing for metals, outsourced processing, MRO, and freight.
Negotiate pricing, lead times, and commercial terms with steel mills, service centers, and key suppliers.
Monitor supplier performance across cost, quality, delivery, and certification requirements.
Partner with engineering and quality on supplier qualification, material specifications, and sourcing alternatives.
Systems, Metrics & Process Improvement
Manage MRP, inventory control, warehousing, and receiving functions with a focus on accuracy, traceability, and lot control.
Leverage ERP systems (IFS, SAP, Epicor, Oracle, Infor) experience to improve planning, purchasing, costing, and reporting.
Establish and track supply chain KPIs related to cost, delivery, inventory accuracy, and supplier reliability.
Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, engineering, quality, finance, sales, and IT to improve processes and system utilization.
Candidate Profile
7+ years of progressive supply chain, materials management, or procurement experience in metal fabrication or industrial manufacturing.
Demonstrated success managing purchasing, inventory, MRP, and suppliers in a high-mix manufacturing environment.
Hands-on ERP experience required; (SAP, Oracle, Epicor, Infor, Plex acceptable).
Strong understanding of MRP logic, BOMs, routings, lead times, capacity constraints, and inventory control best practices.
Proven negotiation experience with steel mills, service centers, and outsourced processing suppliers.
Familiarity with ISO-based quality systems and regulated manufacturing environments preferred.