Inventory Operations Manager Jobs in Madison, WI

At ETC, we're looking for a people-first leader who thrives on building strong teams, solving complex operational challenges, and driving continuous improvement. As our Production & Inventory Control Manager, you'll lead a talented group of planners and inventory professionals while shaping the strategies that keep our manufacturing operations running smoothly and our customers successful.
This is an opportunity to influence the future of our supply chain, improve how we plan and execute production, support new product launches, and partner with leaders across Operations, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Purchasing.
Why This Role Matters
The decisions made by this team directly impact our ability to deliver products to customers around the world. You'll balance customer demand, production capacity, and inventory strategy while helping develop a high-performing team that drives operational excellence.
If you're a collaborative leader who enjoys coaching others, improving processes, and making a measurable business impact, we'd love to talk with you.
Who We Are
ETC is a global leader in lighting, rigging, and power control solutions used in theaters, concert venues, schools, attractions, houses of worship, and architectural spaces around the world.
For more than 50 years, we've combined the resources of a global company with an employee-focused culture that puts people first. As a 100% employee-owned company, we all share in our success and are committed to building innovative products and exceptional customer experiences.
What You'll Do
Lead and Develop a High-Performing Team
Coach, mentor, and support Production & Inventory Control professionals.
Foster a collaborative, accountable, and customer-focused culture.
Develop team capabilities through training, succession planning, and continuous feedback.
Help employees grow their careers while achieving business objectives.
Drive Planning and Inventory Excellence
Oversee production planning, inventory control, master scheduling, and new product introduction (NPI) planning.
Lead development and execution of the master production schedule.
Optimize planning processes to improve service levels, inventory performance, and operational efficiency.
Support inventory reduction initiatives while maintaining customer commitments.
Ensure accurate inventory records and strong ERP data integrity.
Partner Across the Business
Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, Purchasing, and Operations teams to align priorities and solve problems.
Support successful product launches through effective planning and coordination.
Analyze production and planning performance and implement improvements.
Lead initiatives focused on operational excellence, digital manufacturing, and continuous improvement.
What We're Looking For
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Operations Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field. Equivalent experience will be considered.
5+ years of leadership experience in supply chain, production planning, inventory control, manufacturing operations, or a related environment.
Experience leading, coaching, and developing teams.
Strong understanding of planning, scheduling, inventory management, and manufacturing processes.
Experience working with ERP systems, preferably SAP.
Knowledge of MRP, master scheduling, capacity planning, and inventory management.
Experience supporting new product introductions and cross-functional projects.
APICS/ASCM certification is a plus.
You'll Be Successful If You Are...
A positive, engaging leader who enjoys developing people.
Comfortable making decisions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
A strong communicator who can build relationships at every level of the organization.
Passionate about continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Customer-focused and motivated by achieving results.
Analytical, curious, and resourceful when solving problems.
Why Join ETC?
At ETC, you'll have the opportunity to lead a critical function, influence strategic decisions, and develop a talented team while working for a company that genuinely values its employees.
In addition to competitive compensation, we offer:
Excellent healthcare benefits
Generous paid time off
401(k) with pre-tax and Roth options
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Professional growth and development opportunities
This position is based at our Middleton, Wisconsin headquarters, with regular travel to our Mazomanie facility.
Questions? Contact Katie Barreau at 608-824-5329 or Katie.Barreau@etcconnect.com.