Strategic Materials Planner | SAP & Inventory Optimizer

Lactalis American Group; Chicago, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Lactalis Heritage Dairy, part of the Lactalis family, is currently hiring a Materials Planner based in Chicago, IL. The role ensures continuous supply of raw and packaging materials to production and develops replenishment strategies balancing service levels with cost.

Work cross-functionally with Marketing, Procurement, R&D, Suppliers, Quality, Plants, Finance, and BU leadership; leverage SAP to optimize inventory and lead cost-saving transitions while ensuring on-time materials availability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 3+ years of experience in supply chain or related field.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work cross-functionally.
• Strong computer and analytical skills; experience with data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Ensure flawless execution of materials management for commercialization and change initiatives.
• Deliver transition strategy alternatives and minimize write-offs.
• Ensure material availability via supplier forecasts and collaboration.
• Develop and lead inventory replenishment strategies aligned with manufacturing goals.
• Lead inventory reduction initiatives leveraging SAP and supplier capabilities.
• Minimize excess inventory through transfers, returns, or salvage when needed.
• Provide input to Procurement on volumes, contracts, and supplier performance.
• Manage major supply disruptions and contingency plans to maintain supply.
• Maintain data on contracts and material discontinuation.

Skills

3+ years experience

Communication skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical skills

Planner/scheduler experience

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

SAP

Job description

Lactalis Heritage Dairy, part of the Lactalis family, is currently hiring a Materials Planner based in Chicago, IL. The role ensures continuous supply of raw and packaging materials to production and develops replenishment strategies balancing service levels with cost.

Work cross-functionally with Marketing, Procurement, R&D, Suppliers, Quality, Plants, Finance, and BU leadership; leverage SAP to optimize inventory and lead cost-saving transitions while ensuring on-time materials availability.