Sr. Raw Material Planner

Job Summary

The Sr. Raw Material Planner serves as a strategic business partner responsible for ensuring optimal material supply while driving financial performance through data-driven analysis and cost optimization. This role combines advanced supply chain planning with comprehensive financial analysis to support uninterrupted production, maximize profitability, and deliver best-in-class customer service. The position requires an analytical professional who can translate complex data into actionable financial insights and strategic recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

Supply Chain Planning & Optimization:

· Develop and execute both short-term and long-term material plans that align supply and demand while optimizing working capital and inventory investment

· Establish and maintain optimal inventory levels that balance service levels, carrying costs, and obsolescence risk

· Proactively identify and resolve material shortages while minimizing expediting costs and production interruptions

· Collaborate with local material coordinators and site supply chain managers to ensure seamless daily operations

Financial Analysis & Decision Support

· Conduct comprehensive cost analysis including total cost of ownership, landed costs, and supplier price benchmarking

· Develop and maintain financial models for forecasting material costs, inventory valuation, and budget variance analysis

· Perform detailed ROI analysis and financial justification for material sourcing decisions, supplier changes, and inventory optimization initiatives

· Analyze lead time trends and their financial impact on inventory carrying costs, stockout risks, and customer service levels

· Create detailed cost comparison reports for alternative materials, suppliers, and sourcing strategies

· Monitor and report on key financial metrics including inventory turns, days of supply, and material cost variance

Strategic Planning & Forecasting

· Lead statistical analysis of demand patterns, seasonal trends, and market fluctuations to improve forecast accuracy

· Conduct sensitivity analysis and scenario planning for material cost impacts on product profitability

· Support annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting processes with detailed material cost projections

Stakeholder Management & Process Improvement

· Facilitate cross-functional collaboration meetings with stakeholders and vendors to review forecasts, purchase orders, and cost optimization opportunities

· Present financial analysis and recommendations to leadership team for material-related capital investments and strategic decisions

· Design and implement analytical tools and dashboards to enhance planning efficiency and financial visibility

· Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing material costs, improving forecast accuracy, and optimizing inventory levels

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience:

· Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Business Administration, or related analytical field

· 4-6 years of experience in supply chain planning, financial analysis, or operations management

· Demonstrated experience in cost analysis, financial modeling, and budget management

Technical Skills

· Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel including financial modeling, pivot tables, and statistical analysis

· Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and advanced planning systems (APO/MRP)

· Strong knowledge of financial principles including cost accounting, inventory valuation, and working capital management

· Proficiency in data analysis tools and statistical software (SQL, Power BI, or similar preferred)

· Understanding of procurement processes, supplier management, and contract negotiations

Core Competencies

· Exceptional analytical and quantitative skills with ability to derive insights from complex datasets

· Strong financial acumen with experience in cost-benefit analysis and ROI calculations

· Excellent business communication skills with ability to present financial analysis to diverse audiences

· Proven ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities

· Strategic thinking capability with focus on continuous improvement and cost optimization

· Detail-oriented approach with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities

Preferred Qualifications

Training & Certifications:

· APICS Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) certification

· APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or similar supply chain certification

· Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent process improvement certification

· Advanced Ex