What does a Materials Manager do?
A materials manager is responsible for managing inventory and purchasing procedures of raw materials and other supplies within a company. Material managers collaborate with other managers to determine supply needs, purchase supplies and materials according to specifications and coordinate and supervise receiving procedures. Materials managers work in a variety of settings, however, warehouses are where they are most employed.
A bachelor's degree in Logistics or a relevant field is required for material managers as well as 3 years experience in a supervisory role. Successful material managers possess excellent organizational skills and have a deep understanding of forecasting and budgeting.
- Maintains optimum inventory levels to ensure on-time deliveries to meet customer requirements
- Responsible for continuing programs of exploration for new materials, suppliers, and processes to achieve the best possible quality, reliability, prices, continuity, and delivery
- Establishes procedures and supervises the annual physical inventory
- Supervise, evaluate and coach staff members
- Interfaces with product line coordinators on the planning and forecasting of customer orders to meet shipments
- Maintain relationships and negotiate with suppliers
- Purchase supplies and materials according to specifications
- Ensures that the company standard practices and procedures are followed in connection with all materials department functions
- 3+ years' experience in logistics role or related experience
- Ability to lead team members
- Customer service-oriented
- Familiarity with supply chain and inventory management systems
- Knowledgeable of forecasting and budgeting
- Ability to solve problems swiftly
- Working knowledge of SAP MM
- Excellent organizational and leadership skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
Materials Manager Salaries
Average Base Pay
Materials Manager Career Path
Learn how to become a Materials Manager, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Materials Manager Insights
Winnetka Park District“I was fortunate enough to have a group of counselors that was both cohesive and fun to work with.”
Follett“Pay is not the best and certainly not for the requirements or responsibilities of the job.”
Bronson Methodist Hospital“Upper management likes to make changes that don't benefit the people doing the job.”
Boy Scouts of America“The people are amazing and working with the kids is beyond gratifying and is in one of the best places in the world.”
“great team work and fun outings”
Citi“Good pay and rewarding”
Amazon Lab126“You get to work with great and talented people.”
City of Newark, Delaware“Good day to day work schedule and had a fun time.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Materials Manager
- Production Manager
- Operations Manager
- Manager
- General Manager