Materials Manager

Air Distribution Technologies, Inc.; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Ruskin, a subsidiary of Air Distribution Technologies, Inc., is seeking a Materials Manager to lead plant-wide efforts ensuring a consistent, economical, and timely flow of raw and purchased materials to support manufacturing operations. This role emphasizes planning, procurement, and inventory control to meet customer needs.

You will oversee Purchasing, Shipping/Receiving, Production Scheduling, and Inventory Control, while developing production schedules and lean material processes to drive

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or 10 years of Materials Management experience.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in Materials Management within a manufacturing facility.
• Experience negotiating material contracts and managing supplier relationships.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Purchasing, Shipping/Receiving, Production Scheduling, and Inventory Control.
• Develop and manage production schedules to optimize utilization and meet lead times.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing and Engineering to ensure timely material availability.
• Establish Kanban systems and consignment programs to support lean flow.
• Negotiate and manage transportation contracts for inbound and outbound logistics.
• Drive cost-reduction initiatives through strategic sourcing and supplier partnerships.
• Develop departmental budgets and manpower plans.
• Ensure compliance with Code of Conduct, ethics and safety standards, including training.

Skills

ERP systems

Kanban

Lean manufacturing

Supplier relationship management

Advanced Excel

AS400 experience

Contract negotiation

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Accounting, or Industrial Management or related degree

Tools

ERP systems

AS400

Supply chain optimization tools

Job description

Ruskin, a subsidiary of Air Distribution Technologies, Inc., is seeking a Materials Manager to lead plant-wide efforts ensuring a consistent, economical, and timely flow of raw and purchased materials to support manufacturing operations. This role is critical to meeting customer needs and expectations through effective planning, procurement, and inventory control strategies.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as a key member of the Plant Staff, overseeing Purchasing, Shipping/Receiving, Production Scheduling, and Inventory Control functions.
• Develop and manage production schedules to optimize equipment and personnel utilization while meeting lead times and delivery commitments.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing and Engineering teams to ensure timely material availability for customer demand fulfillment.
• Establish and maintain Kanban systems and consignment programs to support lean material flow.
• Negotiate and manage transportation contracts for inbound and outbound logistics.
• Coordinate off‑site inventory locations and outside processing operations.
• Drive cost‑reduction initiatives for raw materials and purchased parts through strategic sourcing and supplier partnerships.
• Develop departmental budgets and manpower plans.
• Ensure compliance with company Code of Conduct, Business Ethics, and safety standards, including conducting monthly safety observations and training for direct reports.
• Leverage ERP systems and supply chain analytics to improve inventory accuracy and reduce lead times.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Accounting, or Industrial Management or related degree.
• In lieu of a degree, 10 years of experience in Materials Management is required.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in Materials Management within a manufacturing facility with progressive responsibilities or leadership role.
• Proven experience in negotiating material contracts and managing supplier relationships.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint) and email systems. Experience with advanced Excel functions is preferred.
• Experience with ERP systems and supply chain optimization tools. Experience with AS400 is preferred.
• Experience with Kanban systems, blanket purchasing agreements, and consignment programs is preferred.
• Familiarity with ESG Supply Chain Management practices and vendor quality processes is preferred.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies is preferred.

Work Environment

This position is primarily performed in a manufacturing plant environment, where employees will be exposed to moderate to loud noise levels and operate near heavy machinery. The role may require standing for extended periods and performing physical activities such as crouching, kneeling, stooping, and reaching. Occasional lifting of materials or equipment weighing up to 75 pounds may be necessary. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.