Buyer Planner Manager at LayerZero Power Systems Inc – Streetsboro, Ohio

*** THIS IS AN ON-SITE POSITION LOCATED IN STREETSBORO OHIO ***

About Us:

LayerZero Power Systems Inc. is a globally recognized leader in providing state-of-the-art power distribution solutions for critical industries. With a strong focus on reliability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, we deliver advanced power systems products that ensure uninterrupted and dependable power supply in mission-critical environments. Our customer base is comprised of companies in the data center (our main focus), financial, computer service provision, and semiconductor manufacturing sectors LayerZero Power Systems is on a trajectory of sustained growth, with a loyal customer base of existing Fortune 100 customers and an expanding portfolio of new customers.

Position Description: Manager, Buyer & Planner Team

LayerZero is seeking a seasoned Manager to lead a team of Buyer/Planners in a high-mix, durable goods environment. The ideal candidate combines material planning expertise with strong people leadership (7+ years) and has played a significant role in the implementation and stabilization of an ERP system. This role demands the ability to solve complex supply chain issues, convert technical details into executive-ready insights, and drive continuous improvement in a configurable/trades-focused manufacturing setting.

Leadership & Team Development

· Lead and develop a team of five Buyer/Planners; set and monitor KPIs (OTD, inventory turns, SIOP adherence, PPV, NCR closure).

· Conduct performance reviews and implement skill development in forecasting, negotiation, and supplier management.

Material Planning & Inventory Management

· Oversee MRP/SIOP cycles, including demand forecasting, planning parameters, and capacity alignment.

· Ensure accuracy of BOMs, routings, lead times, and planning data for efficient production.

· Optimize inventory health by reducing stockouts, excess, and obsolete materials.

ERP Implementation & Process Improvement

· Act as functional lead for ERP implementation and upgrades, including design, testing, training, and go-live.

· Define workflows, master data standards, and manage UAT for purchasing and planning modules.

· Collaborate with IT to configure MRP/S&OP processes, validate data migration, and stabilize post-go-live operations.

· Develop SOPs, user guides, and train team members; establish governance for continuous improvement.

· Monitor ERP KPIs (MRP exceptions, PO cycle time, plan adherence) and lead hypercare stabilization.

Problem Solving & Risk Mitigation

· Resolve supply constraints through root cause analysis and corrective actions (dual sourcing, expedites, safety stock).

· Lead root cause analysis for misses (late POs, incorrect planning parameters, forecast error) and drive corrective actions.

Reporting & Executive Communication

· Prepare dashboards and executive-level reports on cost trends, supplier OTIF, inventory, and ERP progress.

· Present monthly performance reviews: cost trends, supplier OTIF, inventory position, and ERP stabilization progress with action plans.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Partner with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Finance on NPI, ECR/ECO, and make/buy decisions.

· Align material readiness with production schedules and customization requirements.

Education:

· Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field; MBA preferred.

· Preferred Certifications: APICS CPIM/CSCP, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, PMP (for structured project delivery).

Experience & Skills:

· 7+ years of people management leading Buyer/Planner teams in durable goods/manufacturing.

· Hands-on experience with ERP implementation (functional lead or super user) for purchasing/material planning modules.

· Proficiency with MRP/SIOP, demand planning, and inventory optimization; strong Excel and data visualization (Power BI/Tableau).

· Demonstrated ability to translate technical details into executive-ready insights and drive decisions.

· Strong negotiation, supplier management, and problem-solving skills.

What We Offer:

· Competitive pay, in line with experience and with performance incentives

· 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision

· 401(k) with company match

· 3 weeks PTO, 10 paid holidays, and 2 floating holidays

· Flexible work schedule that supports business and personal goals, organized and in agreement with your manager