We are seeking an experienced Inventory Planning Manager – New Part Introduction (NPI) to lead a team of inventory and transportation planners supporting new product and part launches across our manufacturing operations. This role is critical to ensuring the seamless introduction of new parts and programs into production, enabling on-time builds, smooth ramps, and zero disruption during launch phases.
The ideal candidate brings deep experience in manufacturing planning and NPI execution, strong SAP expertise, and proven leadership in cross-functional environments. This individual will partner closely with Engineering, Program Management, Procurement, Production, Logistics, and Finance to ensure new parts are planned, sourced, and positioned correctly from prototype through volume production.
In this role, you will:
Lead inventory and material planning for new parts and new product introductions, from early engineering builds through production ramp and steady-state.
Develop and execute NPI inventory strategies that balance supply assurance, cost, and working capital during highly dynamic launch phases.
Ensure material readiness to support prototype builds, pilot runs, SOP launches, and ramp milestones without line stoppages or launch delays.
Drive planning accuracy and visibility in SAP (S/4HANA), including MRP setup, lead times, safety stock, lot sizing, and part master data for new parts.
Partner closely with Engineering and Program teams to manage BOM releases, engineering change orders (ECOs), and revision control during NPI.
Collaborate with Procurement and suppliers to validate sourcing readiness, capacity, and lead times for new components.
Oversee inbound and outbound transportation planning for NPI materials, ensuring timely and cost-effective movement aligned with launch schedules.
Identify and mitigate material risks related to supplier readiness, long lead-time components, and ramp volatility.
Establish and track NPI-specific KPIs to measure launch readiness, planning accuracy, material availability, and post-launch stabilization.
Guide the transition of parts from NPI into standard production planning and inventory management processes.
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of planners focused on high-urgency, high-complexity launch execution.
Champion cross-functional communication and alignment, ensuring stakeholders have clear visibility into NPI material status, risks, and mitigation plans.
Travel: up to 25% may be required (including international travel)
Qualifications:
8+ years of experience in inventory management, materials planning, or supply chain operations within a manufacturing environment.
2+ years of experience leading or supervising planning or logistics teams.
Demonstrated experience supporting new part introductions, product launches, or manufacturing ramps.
Strong working knowledge of SAP S/4HANA, including MRP, inventory management, and master data setup.
Experience working directly with suppliers to support launch readiness and evolving build requirements.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and execution skills in fast-paced, ambiguous environments.
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or related field.
Bonus Qualifications:
Experience in automotive or industrial manufacturing environments
APICS/CPIM certification or equivalent supply chain credential.
Proven success in implementing planning process improvements or system enhancements
Familiarity with transportation planning and logistics coordination
Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, or Engineering.
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