Material Protect Specialist

Job Title

Material Protect Specialist at Ford Motor Company

We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world – together. At Ford, we’re all a part of something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to change the way the world moves? We are seeking a highly analytical Material Protect Specialist to contribute to critical initiatives that enhance the resilience and efficiency of our global supply chain.

This role is pivotal in developing and optimizing processes, coaching and training, and managing key strategic projects that proactively identify, assess, and mitigate supply‑chain risks to ensure continuity of Ford production.

• Business Process Optimization & Training Leadership: Design, develop, and implement optimized business processes and standard operating procedures (SOPs) that reduce bureaucracy, increase speed, and enhance operational efficiency of the strategic stockpile process.
• Own the parts bank build/stockpile procedure, ensuring effective deployment, adoption, and continuous refinement based on performance data and feedback.
• Develop, deliver, and continuously improve comprehensive training programs and materials (e.g., workshops, guides, e‑learning modules) for SOT team members and cross‑functional partners on new tools, optimized processes, and best practices.
• Lead the Strategic Stockpile Help Desk for SOT and cross‑functional stakeholders to answer questions on process, procedures, and tools.
• Coach and mentor team members on new processes, tools, and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous learning and high performance.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration and High‑Impact Stakeholder Management: Provide guidance on the strategic stockpile process and where to gather information required to complete forms and attain approvals.
• Serve as a primary liaison between Purchasing, MP&L (Material Planning & Logistics), STA (Supplier Technical Assistance), SRM (Supply Risk Management), and other stakeholders in strategic stockpile/bank build execution.
• Facilitate discussions and workshops with cross‑functional teams to align on process changes and training needs.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting for Action: Define, track, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and leading indicators related to supply‑chain risk and operational excellence, providing actionable intelligence.
• Ensure accuracy and timeliness of data used for monthly metrics filings, weekly operations reviews, and executive‑level reporting.
• Develop and maintain tracking mechanisms for project milestones, process adherence, and training completion rates, and provide regular updates to stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Process Engineering, Business Analytics, Operations, Industrial Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in supply‑chain management, business analysis, process improvement, training, or a related analytical role within the automotive industry and complex global supply chains.
• 3+ years of demonstrated experience managing work streams or significant contributions to cross‑functional projects with emphasis on rapid deployment and execution.
• Proven ability to manage project tasks, track progress, and drive successful completion of project components within a fast‑paced environment.
• Demonstrated experience working with data science/analytics teams.
• Past certification in Project Management or Lean Six Sigma is a plus.
• Experience in developing and delivering effective training programs and materials to diverse audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships across all organizational levels.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Strong coaching and mentoring abilities.
• Strong organization and time management skills.
• Strong proficiency in business process mapping and analysis.
• Knowledge of Sourcing and MP&L processes, procedures, and tools.
• Conflict management skillset (patience and empathy).
• Ability to find out‑of‑the‑box solutions…