The Operations Specialist is a versatile and proactive individual supporting our Operations team in various capacities. This role involves assisting the Buyer Planner, managing inventory, and providing special projects support to the Plant Manager and Director of Operations. The OS is organized, adaptable, and eager to contribute to the company’s success in a dynamic Operations and Manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities & Daily Tasks Include:
Operations Support
- Assist the Buyer Planner with procurement activities, including:
- Reviewing and processing purchase orders.
- Communicating with suppliers to confirm deliveries and resolve order issues.
- Tracking material shipments and updating records in the ERP system.
- Support the Director of Operations daily by:
- Monitoring production schedule and identifying potential delays related to inventory.
- Helping implement process improvements to increase efficiency.
- Conducting brief operational reviews and escalating critical issues.
- Assist the Director of Operations in executing strategic initiatives by:
- Coordinating meetings, preparing reports, and tracking action items.
- Analyzing operational data and presenting recommendations.
Inventory Management
- Perform daily inventory checks to ensure materials are available for production.
- Coordinate with warehouse staff to verify incoming and outgoing inventory movements. Monitor and track undocumented inventory movements and institute continuous improvements to prevent recurrence.
- Investigate and reconcile any inventory discrepancies.
- Support the cycle counting process and audit inventory records.
- Collaborate with procurement to anticipate material shortages and place orders accordingly.
- Empower channel partners with training, programs, and resources to position Newcastle as the vendor of choice.
- Integrate Newcastle’s product portfolio into tailored partner solutions for regional markets.
- Facilitate cross-selling opportunities and account mapping between Newcastle and channel sellers.
Special Projects & Process Improvement
- Participate in operational meetings to identify areas for improvement.
- Assist in implementing Lean manufacturing principles to enhance efficiency.
- Collect and analyze data related to production, inventory, and logistics.
- Provide input on technology or workflow enhancements.
- Coordinate cross-functional projects to drive operational success.
- Lead special International customer packaging project 2x / year.
General Administrative Support
- Respond to operational inquiries from internal and external stakeholders.
- Prepare reports on production and inventory levels
- Maintain accurate and organized documentation for operational procedures.
- Assist with scheduling and coordination of maintenance activities.
- Support various departments with administrative tasks as needed.
Future Leadership Development
- Mentor and coach emerging channel leaders to foster talent growth within Newcastle.
- Implement a succession plan to ensure the sustainability of Newcastle’s global channel strategy.
- Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent work experience).
- Prior experience in manufacturing, operations, or supply chain roles preferred.
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Familiarity with safety regulations and programs in a manufacturing environment.
- Proficiency in ERP / MRP systems (Epicor experience is a big plus), inventory management software, and MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders.
- Analytical mindset with attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced environment.
This role requires a hands-on approach and a willingness to work across various functions within the manufacturing and operations team. Flexibility, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning are key to success in this position.
