Materials Planner
We are seeking a highly organized and analytical Materials Planner to join our Supply Chain team. This role plays a key part in ensuring raw materialsincluding fabrics, trims, and packagingare forecasted, sourced, and delivered on time to meet product development and production schedules. The ideal candidate will have experience in materials planning, strong data management skills, and a solid understanding of the apparel supply chain.
Key Responsibilities :
Materials Forecasting & Planning :
- Translate seasonal product forecasts and line plans into raw material demand plans by SKU, style, and vendor.
- Analyze historical usage data and trends to maintain accurate material forecasts and inventory levels.
- Monitor forecast accuracy and recommend adjustments as needed.
Inventory Management :
Track material deliveries and proactively resolve delays or issues with vendors or logistics teams.Maintain up-to-date records of material commitments, deliveries, and inventory levels in internal systems.Ensure optimal inventory levels of materials to support production without overstocking.Identify and help mitigate risks related to material shortages, excess, or obsolescence.Collaborate with sourcing and merchandising teams to manage raw material liabilities and support inventory clean-up efforts.Vendor Coordination :
Communicate material needs and delivery timelines to suppliers and mills.Support vendor performance tracking and issue resolution (e.g., quality concerns, late shipments).Coordinate sample yardage and bulk fabric needs with design and development teams.Cross-Functional Collaboration :
Partner with design, merchandising, sourcing, and production teams to ensure materials are aligned with product timelines and costing targets.Participate in seasonal calendar meetings and pre-production checkpoints.System & Data Management :
Maintain accurate material data in ERP / PLM systems (e.g., item master data, lead times, costs).Run regular reports to support planning decisions and provide visibility to stakeholders.Qualifications : Required :
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Fashion Merchandising, or related field.35 years of experience in materials planning, production planning, or supply chain in the apparel or retail industry.Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with ERP or PLM systems.Excellent organizational and communication skills.Preferred :
Experience working with overseas suppliers and mills.Familiarity with lead times, MOQ management, and apparel development calendars.Understanding of sustainable materials and responsible sourcing principles is a plus.Key Competencies :
Planning & PrioritizationAttention to DetailData AnalysisVendor CommunicationCollaboration & TeamworkProblem Solving