Materials Manager Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW) is a Fortune 200 global manufacturer with over $15.9B in revenue, known for its decentralized structure, customer-focused innovation, and operational excellence. Founded in 1912, ITW operates across 50+ countries, delivering specialized solutions through its unique 80/20 business model. ITW Specialty Films produces high-performance coated and metallized films for industries including Financial Cards, Secure ID, Medical Packaging, and Holographics. With eight facilities across North America and Europe, we combine deep technical expertise with agile manufacturing to meet complex customer needs. The Materials Manager leads sourcing, purchasing, shipping/receiving, and inventory operations at the Cranbury facility to ensure uninterrupted production support and operational excellence. Responsibilities include sourcing and procuring materials, maintaining optimal inventory levels, managing supplier relationships, negotiating pricing and contract terms, and ensuring the timely delivery of quality materials to support production schedules. As a strategic business partner, this position leverages ERP systems and data analysis to improve material availability, optimize inventory and costs, enhance processes, develop team capabilities, and support continuous improvement aligned with ITW's business goals.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management:
Develop and execute sourcing strategies aligned with ITW's 80/20 methodology.
Identify dual sourcing options, stocking agreements, and conduct supplier audits.
Collaborate with suppliers to improve cost, quality, and delivery performance.
Drive year-over-year improvements in supply base efficiency and reliability.
Materials Planning & ERP Execution:
Utilize site ERP and ITW Toolbox to drive planning and purchasing to ensure material availability.
Partner with operations on implementation and maintenance of the plant MRD program, which seeks to plan production and procure materials based on a pull system and maintenance of target material and finished good inventory levels.
Manage supplier relationships including placing POs, monitoring supplier OTIF, and industry concerns.
Maintain optimal inventory levels to support production to achieve inventory KPI targets.
Ensure inventory accuracy and on-time delivery through visual management, lean practices, and partnering with Operations.
Warehouse Operations & Logistics:
Oversee inbound and outbound logistics, receiving, storage and distribution.
Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, hazardous materials, and customs regulations.
Implement process improvements to streamline material flow and reduce waste.
Maintain high standards of housekeeping, safety, and operational discipline.
Leadership & Team Development:
Lead and develop a team of non-exempt materials professionals.
Foster a proactive, growth-oriented culture focused on continuous improvement.
Communication clearly and consistently to align team goals with business objectives.
Champion ITW values and create a safe, inclusive, and high-performing work environment.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree with 3+ years in purchasing/sourcing experience and 3+ years in operation or supply chain or equivalent combination of education and experience. 3-5 years of work experience in manufacturing environment preferred.
Strong proficiency in ERP systems (Infor Preferred).Demonstrated expertise in sourcing, supplier management, and inventory control.
Advanced data analysis skills; able to translate insights into actionable strategies.
Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and drive collaboration.
Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills across all levels.
Familiarity with 80/20 principles and lean manufacturing concepts a plus.
Understanding of basic business financials and cost drivers.
Physical Demands & Working Environment:- On-site role in manufacturing facility, with frequent movement between office and production areas; PPE provided as needed.
- Requires frequent sitting, standing, walking, computer use and communication with office and production floor teams.
- Up to 10% travel (domestic)
- Salary $95,000 – $115,000 annually based on factors such as relevant experience, education, and skills.
ITW has a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including medical plan options with FSA and HSA plans, dental, prescription drug, vision, 401(k) with a company match, life insurance, wellness programs, employee discounts, 12 paid holidays per year, vacation and sick time starting in year of hire, and a corporate matching gift program for charitable donations! More information can be found here.
ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues' unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.
