Job Description
Job Description
Ventek Solutions is a leading manufacturer of engineered shape molded foam components, protective packaging, and multi-material assembly solutions. As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced Materials Manager to join our team and further strengthen our position in the market.
The Materials Manager is responsible for overseeing procurement, inventory management, logistics, and material flow within a high-volume custom packaging manufacturing environment. This role will support sourcing and supply of corrugated packaging materials, optimize supply chain performance, and ensure efficient inbound and outbound logistics operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in procurement within the corrugated industry, deep supply chain expertise, and proven leadership experience.
This role will be based at our Eau Claire, WI facility. No relocation assistance will be provided.
Key Responsibilities:
Procurement & Sourcing
- Lead sourcing strategies for corrugated packaging materials and related supplies.
- Support with negotiating supplier agreements to ensure competitive pricing, quality standards, and supply continuity.
- Maintain strong supplier relationships and conduct regular performance reviews.
- Oversee material planning to meet production requirements while minimizing excess inventory.
- Develop and maintain accurate inventory control processes.
- Monitor material usage trends and adjust procurement schedules accordingly.
- Manage inbound and outbound logistics to ensure on-time delivery and cost efficiency.
- Partner with third party transportation providers to optimize freight costs and delivery performance.
- Collaborate with production, scheduling, and warehouse teams to ensure smooth material flow.
Inventory & Materials Management
- Oversee material planning to meet production requirements while minimizing excess inventory.
- Develop and maintain accurate inventory control processes.
- Monitor material usage trends and adjust procurement schedules accordingly.
Logistics & Supply Chain Optimization
- Manage inbound and outbound logistics to ensure on-time delivery and cost efficiency.
- Partner with third party transportation providers to optimize freight costs and delivery performance.
- Collaborate with production, scheduling, and warehouse teams to ensure smooth material flow.
Leadership & Continuous Improvement
- Lead, coach, and develop a materials and logistics team.
- Implement lean and continuous improvement practices to reduce costs, improve accuracy, and streamline processes.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and industry regulations.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or related field. Equivalent experience will be considered for the right candidate.
- Minimum 5+ years of experience in materials management, procurement, or supply chain roles within a manufacturing environment.
- Experience and knowledge with corrugated packaging procurement is preferred.
- Strong logistics management experience, including carrier negotiation and freight optimization.
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent leadership and communication abilities.
- APICS, CPSM, or similar supply chain/procurement certification.
- Experience implementing cost reduction and supplier performance programs.
- Lean manufacturing and/or Six Sigma experience.
Preferred Skills:
- APICS, CPSM, or similar supply chain/procurement certification.
- Experience implementing cost reduction and supplier performance programs.
- Lean manufacturing and/or Six Sigma experience.