Materials Management Optimization Lead

CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. 

Our Vision: Our vision is to become the most admired utility in the United States through the execution of our long-term growth strategy. We have an unwavering commitment to safely and reliably deliver electricity and natural gas to millions of people. 

Our Commitment: CenterPoint Energy is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where business results are achieved through the skills, abilities and talents of our diverse workforce.

At CenterPoint Energy, individuals are respected for their contributions toward our company objectives. We strive for an inclusive work environment across all levels that is reflective of the available workforce in the communities we serve.

Job Summary:
CenterPoint Energy is seeking an experienced Materials Management Optimization Lead with a strong background in materials management to drive strategic improvements and operational excellence. In this role, you will leverage market insights and robust process engineering to refine procurement practices, enhance supplier performance, and optimize inventory management. Your work will be instrumental in building a resilient supply chain that meets our enterprise objectives and adapts to market dynamics.

Essential Functions:

• Benchmarking & Industry Analysis: Evaluate CenterPoint's materials management strategies against industry trends and competitor benchmarks. Identify opportunities to enhance procurement practice, cost control, and supplier relations based on market intelligence.
• Data Reporting & Performance Metrics: Develop and maintain analytical dashboards that monitor critical KPIs such as inventory optimization and emergency materials availability. Translate complex data trends into clear, actionable insights for senior management.
• Process Standardization & Optimization: Assess existing procurement workflows to pinpoint inefficiencies. Design and implement improved processes that boost operational consistency and drive cost-effective performance.
• Strategic Planning & Decision Support: Provide robust quantitative analyses and predictive insights to inform strategic planning. Collaborate with leadership to develop risk mitigation strategies and ensure the continuous availability of essential materials.
• Supply Chain Resiliency & Emergency Preparedness: Analyze and enhance CenterPoint's ability to oversee supply chain disruptions. Develop strategies that secure uninterrupted material supply during market fluctuations or emergencies.
• Digital Integration & Process Automation: Lead initiatives to incorporate advanced digital solutions that streamline procurement and operational workflows. Partner with IT teams to ensure seamless integration of automated systems that support materials management.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Function as a bridge between materials management, finance, operations, and IT to ensure cohesive strategy execution. Promote effective communication and knowledge sharing across departments to drive a unified approach.
• Supplier & Market Analysis: Monitor and analyze supplier performance along with broader market trends. Support contract negotiations and sourcing decisions by providing data-driven insights into market conditions.

Education Description:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or a related field. Advanced degree in process improvement, supply chain management, or related disciplines are preferred. 

Experience: 

• 8+ years of direct experience in materials management, procurement, or supply chain engineering, preferably in the utility or energy sector.
• Strong expertise in leading process optimization initiatives and implementing digital solutions to streamline procurement workflows. 
• Proficiency in data analytics and dashboard development, with strong quantitative skills to interpret complex data sets and drive actionable insights, such as Palantir, SAP MM, Power BI, Tableau.  
• Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP ECC and S/4 HANA preferred) and supply chain planning tools.
• Experience in predictive modeling and trend analysis to support strategic planning and decision-making.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a strong record of articulating complex concepts to diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in managing cross-functional teams and collaborating effectively with departments such as IT, finance, operations, and supply chain.

We want you to know
Being a part of the CenterPoint Energy team is more than a career alone. It's an opportunity to make a positive impact. You will be an integral part of enabling everyday life and the pursuit of possibilities for the customers we serve and the communities we share. The vital services we provide are at the core of making our world work, and by sharing your energy with us, we'll create a better tomorrow together. 

What we bring to you

• Competitive pay
• Paid training
• Benefits eligibility begins on your first day
• Transit subsidies
• Flexible work schedule, paid holidays and paid time off
• Access to discounts at fitness clubs and an on-site wellness center at our headquarters in Houston
• Professional growth and development programs including tuition reimbursement
• 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match dollar-for-dollar up to 6% and a company contribution of 3% regardless of your contribution

Job Type: Full Time 
Posting Start Date: 05/06/2025​
Posting End Date: 05/20/2025

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a), and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.

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