About the Role
We are looking for an experienced and result-oriented Materials Manager to lead and manage the complete materials and supply chain functions for the business unit.
The role will be responsible for Purchase, Stores, Inventory Management, Inventory Optimization, Strategic Procurement, Logistics, and Import & Export operations.
The ideal candidate should possess strong leadership capabilities, international sourcing experience, and a proven track record in driving procurement efficiency, inventory control, cost optimization, and supply continuity in a manufacturing environment.
Role & responsibilities
Procurement & Strategic Sourcing
- Lead end-to-end procurement activities for direct and indirect materials.
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives to optimize cost, quality, and delivery performance.
- Identify and develop domestic and international suppliers for critical categories.
- Drive long-term procurement strategies aligned with business objectives.
- Lead commercial negotiations, contract finalization, and vendor performance management.
- Ensure uninterrupted material availability while maintaining optimized inventory levels.
- Collaborate with production, planning, maintenance, finance, and projects teams for procurement planning.
International Procurement
- Handle international sourcing activities including supplier identification, techno-commercial evaluations, and global negotiations.
- Manage overseas procurement processes including import documentation, customs coordination, freight management, and compliance.
- Develop strong global supplier relationships for strategic materials and equipment.
- Monitor international market trends, pricing movements, and supply risks.
Stores & Inventory Management
- Oversee stores operations including receipt, storage, preservation, issue, and stock reconciliation.
- Implement best practices in warehouse and inventory management.
- Ensure accurate inventory records and adherence to stock control procedures.
- Drive inventory optimization initiatives including reduction of non-moving, slow-moving, and excess inventory.
- Monitor inventory accuracy, stock aging, reorder levels, and material planning.
- Conduct periodic audits and ensure compliance with company policies.
Logistics & Supply Chain
- Manage inbound logistics operations.
- Coordinate transportation, freight, and shipment planning for domestic and international consignments.
- Optimize logistics costs while ensuring timely deliveries.
- Coordinate with CHA, freight forwarders, transporters, and statutory authorities.
Process Improvement & Compliance
- Develop and implement SOPs, KPIs, and reports for procurement and SCM functions.
- Drive digitization and process improvement initiatives within the supply chain function.
- Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, import-export regulations, and internal audit standards.
- Support ERP-based procurement and inventory management systems.
Preferred candidate profile
Educational Qualification
- B.E/B.Tech/MBA /PGDM
- MBA / PG Diploma in Supply Chain Management or Materials Management will be preferred.
Experience
- Minimum 10 years of experience in Purchase and Supply Chain Management.
- Proven experience in handling:
- Procurement
- Stores
- Inventory Management
- Logistics
- Import & Export Operations
- Mandatory experience in International Procurement / Global Sourcing.
- Experience in manufacturing, chemical, process industry, or industrial operations will be preferred.
- Prior experience in managing large material portfolios and multi-functional SCM operations is essential.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
- Expertise in inventory optimization and supply planning.
- Sound knowledge of import-export procedures and international trade practices.
- Strong analytical and commercial acumen.
- Leadership and team management capabilities.
- ERP/SAP proficiency preferred.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced and result-driven environment.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Inventory optimization and reduction in carrying cost.
- Procurement cost savings.
- Supplier performance and lead time improvement.
- Inventory accuracy and stock availability.
- Reduction in non-moving and slow-moving inventory.
- Logistics cost optimization.
- On-time procurement and delivery performance.