Material Planner

Position Summary The Material Planner is responsible for ensuring uninterrupted material availability and optimized inventory levels to support DPNP manufacturing operations and the Mitsubishi Pressboard business. This role serves as the key liaison between manufacturing, procurement, logistics, customer service, suppliers, and regional supply chain teams to balance demand, production requirements, and material supply. The position is accountable for translating production and sales requirements into material plans, managing supplier relationships, coordinating imports and exports, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives to enhance supply chain performance. Key Responsibilities Material Planning & Procurement Develop and maintain short-term and long-term material requirements plans based on production schedules, sales forecasts, and business demand. Translate production volume plans into raw material and packaging material forecasts. Place and manage purchase orders for raw materials, semi-finished materials, and purchased products required for DPNP operations. Monitor supplier performance, material availability, and capacity constraints to ensure supply continuity. Lead mitigation activities for material shortages and develop contingency plans when supply risks arise. Production & Inventory Management Support production planning by ensuring timely material availability for manufacturing operations. Maintain optimal inventory levels while balancing customer service, working capital, and storage capacity requirements. Conduct weekly and monthly inventory reviews and reconciliation activities. Identify inventory discrepancies and implement corrective actions. Manage slow-moving, obsolete, and excess inventory in collaboration with manufacturing and finance teams. Mitsubishi Pressboard Business Management Manage end-to-end supply chain activities for the Mitsubishi Pressboard business, including demand planning, material procurement, inventory management, and order fulfillment. Coordinate domestic and international logistics activities to ensure on-time delivery of pressboard products to customers. Collaborate with Mitsubishi suppliers and internal stakeholders to maintain stable supply and optimize inventory levels. Monitor sales demand and market trends to proactively adjust procurement and production plans. Support import/export documentation, customs requirements, and regulatory compliance related to pressboard shipments. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve service, reduce supply chain costs, and enhance operational efficiency within the Mitsubishi Pressboard business. Logistics & Supply Chain Coordination Coordinate inbound and outbound transportation activities to ensure timely delivery of materials and finished goods. Work closely with logistics providers, warehouses, and customs brokers to support domestic and international shipments. Monitor transportation performance and resolve logistics-related issues impacting customer service or production. Stakeholder Management Collaborate with manufacturing, procurement, customer service, sales, and regional/global supply chain teams. Participate in production planning and supply review meetings. Provide regular updates on material availability, inventory levels, and supply risks to management and business stakeholders. Support customer and commercial teams in responding to urgent requests and changing business requirements. Continuous Improvement Analyze supply chain performance metrics and identify process improvement opportunities. Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for supply disruptions, inventory issues, and service failures. Support digitalization and automation initiatives within planning and supply chain processes. Ensure compliance with company policies, SOX requirements, and supply chain governance standards. Qualifications Required Qualifications 3+ years of experience in Supply Chain, Material Planning, Production Planning, Procurement, or Logistics. Strong SAP knowledge, preferably MM, PP, and SD. Advanced Excel and data analysis skills. Experience working with suppliers and cross-functional teams in a manufacturing environment. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Business-level English & Japanese communication skills Preferred Qualifications APICS CPIM, CSCP, or equivalent certification. Experience in import/export operations and international supply chain management. Experience supporting specialty paper, industrial materials, insulation materials, or pressboard-related businesses. Knowledge of inventory optimization and forecasting tools