Materials Manager

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.

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.

ITW Specialty Films produces high-performance coated and metallized films for industries including Financial Cards, Secure , 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Directly supervise and develop non-exempt team members.

• Minimum 3 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 80/20 principles and lean manufacturing concepts is a plus.
• Understanding of basic business financials and cost drivers.

• 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 15% divisionally as needed.

• 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.

• This is a Full-Time Exempt position

• 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.