Materials Manager

Job Description:

Company Overview

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.

Division Overview – ITW Specialty Films

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.

Role Summary

We’re seeking a Materials Manager to lead sourcing, planning, and inventory operations at our Chicago-area facility. This role is ideal for a strategic thinker with strong ERP experience, data analysis capabilities, and a passion for continuous improvement. You’ll drive material reliability, cost efficiency, and team development in alignment with ITW’s core competencies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies aligned with ITW’s 80/20 methodology.
• Identify and implement dual sourcing, stocking agreements, and 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

• Lead ERP-driven purchasing and planning processes to ensure material availability.
• Maintain optimal inventory levels to support production without excess or shortage.
• Use data analytics to forecast demand, monitor trends, and improve planning accuracy.
• Ensure inventory accuracy and on-time delivery through visual management and lean practices.

Warehouse Operations & Logistics

• Oversee inbound/outbound logistics, receiving, storage, and distribution.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and hazmat 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.
• Communicate clearly and consistently to align team goals with business objectives.
• Champion ITW values and create a safe, inclusive, and high-performing work environment.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Directly supervise and develop non-exempt team members.

QUALIFICATIONS

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in materials management, supply chain, or related field.
• Strong proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent).
• 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 ITW’s 80/20 principles and lean manufacturing concepts is a plus.
• Understanding of basic business financials and cost drivers.

License(s)/Certification(s) Required: None

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees may be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested, subject to all applicable state and federal laws.

Certain job functions described herein may be subject to possible modification in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is:
• Requires frequent standing, Walking, computer use, and communication with both office and production floor teams.
• Regular movement through production areas; proper PPE provided as needed.
• Travel up to 5% divisionally as needed.

Working Conditions

• On-site role in a manufacturing facility.
• Frequent movement between office and production areas; PPE provided as needed.
• Requires standing, walking, computer use, and communication across teams.

FLSA Status

• This is a Full-Time Exempt position

Compensation Information:

Pay Range

• Salary $98,000 - $123,000 per yr.

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.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.