Sr. Material Planner, Long-Term

Work Location: ​Chicago​

Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more) is essential for: effective communication including during in-person meetings, strong supervision, real-time problem-solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives.

Want to make an impact?

The Senior Material Planner, Long Term leads the strategic planning and forecasting of materials to ensure long-term supply continuity, inventory optimization, and alignment with business goals. The role contributes to financial and operational efficiency by identifying material needs well in advance, optimizing procurement timing, and working cross-functionally to mitigate supply risks and maximize value.

Ways you will make a difference

• Develop and execute long-term material planning strategies to support production needs while managing inventory levels across seasonal and core product lines.
• Serve as a key partner in Integrated Business Planning (IBP), contributing accurate material forecasts and scenario planning insights.
• Collaborate with Category Management, Supply Planning, Procurement, and Finance to align material strategies with company objectives and cost targets.
• Analyze supply and demand data to forecast materials, adjust for constraints, and identify opportunities to reduce lead times or improve working capital.
• Own and manage purchase requisitions (PRs), ensuring timely conversion to POs, consolidation of orders, and adjustments based on inventory strategy and master data.
• Proactively monitor and manage risks related to material risks, market fluctuations, or supplier concerns, and develop mitigation plans.
• Support the seasonal planning process by coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate volume and timing of seasonal materials.
• Provide recommendations and insights on cost vs. cash tradeoffs to optimize procurement decisions.
• Leverage ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and analytics tools (e.g., Excel/Google Sheets) for scenario modeling, forecasting, and reporting.
• Contribute to process improvements by identifying inefficiencies and proposing new methods or technologies to streamline material planning operations.

Skills that will make you successful

• Strategic Forecasting & Planning: Ability to forecast material requirements based on multiple data sources and lead time variables.
• Analytical Thinking: Skilled in data interpretation, scenario modeling, and decision-making to balance cost, service, and inventory.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Ability to align with supply planning, procurement, and finance to ensure synchronized operations.
• ERP System Proficiency: Deep familiarity with SAP or other ERP systems, particularly in the area of material planning and purchasing.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to drive alignment internally and externally.
• Initiative & Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying risks or inefficiencies and driving continuous improvement.
• Time Management & Prioritization: Capability to manage multiple long-term projects while supporting urgent or tactical needs.

Experiences that will support your success

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience in supply chain or material planning.
• Demonstrated success in long-term forecasting, scenario planning, and supplier alignment.
• Hands-on experience with SAP and S&OP/IBP processes.
• APICS CPIM or CSCP certification is a strong plus.

What We Offer

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO).  Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Candy-2025-OE-QR

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $80,325 to $112,455 annually.