NPD Materials Specialist
Smith & Nephew · Alajuela
Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced NPD Materials Specialist to play a key role in supporting the successful transition of new products from development into full-scale manufacturing.
In this position, you will act as the critical link between NPD Procurement and the manufacturing site, ensuring material readiness for new product launches. You will be responsible for creating and maintaining the Plan for Every Part (PFEP), managing temporary purchasing activities prior to SAP setup, coordinating supplier readiness, and facilitating a seamless handoff to the factory Buyer/Planner.
The ideal candidate combines strong procurement and supply chain expertise with the ability to manage multiple stakeholders, navigate complex BOM structures, and proactively resolve material-related risks.
What You'll Be Doing
Material Planning & Readiness
- Create and maintain PFEPs for assigned NPD projects, including: BOM structures Supplier information Forecasts Lead times Pricing Delivery status
- Track and report material readiness for validation builds, pilot builds, and product launches.
- Maintain open order, shortage, and delivery status reports.
Purchasing & Supplier Coordination
- Place and manage temporary indirect purchase orders before SAP purchasing processes are established.
- Coordinate and expedite supplier deliveries to meet critical project timelines.
- Work closely with suppliers to resolve delivery risks and material shortages.
System & Process Support
- Support procurement-related SAP master data setup activities required for product launches.
- Assist in converting temporary purchase orders into SAP purchase orders once system setup is complete.
- Ensure procurement data is accurate and ready for transition into routine operations.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with: NPD Procurement Engineers Supply & Demand Planning teams Manufacturing Buyer/Planners Suppliers
- Drive resolution of material issues and supply chain risks.
- Lead the formal handoff of suppliers, forecasts, purchase orders, and PFEP data to the factory Buyer/Planner as projects move into production.
- Support launch stabilization activities to ensure continuity of supply.
This position is P3 level
What will you need to be successful?
Education
- Bachelor's degree in: Supply Chain Business Operations Manufacturing Engineering Technology Or a related field
Experience
- 3+ years of experience in: Purchasing Procurement Operations Material Planning Supply Chain Manufacturing Support
- Experience working with: Bills of Material (BOMs) Demand forecasts Supplier management
- Experience with SAP, Ariba, or other ERP systems preferred.
- Previous experience supporting New Product Introductions (NPI/NPD) or product launches preferred.
Languages:
- Fluent in English (C1)
Skills
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
- Strong understanding of procurement, suppliers, and material planning.
- Ability to interpret and manage BOMs and product structures.
- Excellent organizational and follow-up skills.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Detail-oriented with a high level of ownership and accountability.
- Strong problem-solving and risk mitigation mindset.
Success in This Role Looks Like
- Accurate and complete PFEP management.
- On-time material availability for builds and product launches.
- Effective management of temporary purchasing activities before SAP implementation.
- Smooth transition to SAP purchasing processes.
- Successful handoff of projects to factory Buyer/Planners.
- Minimal disruption during launch and stabilization phases.
You. Unlimited
We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.
Inclusion+belonging: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving, learn more about employee inclusion groups on our website
Other reasons why you will love it here!
- Your future: stock purchase program, referral bonus, subsidy in transport and food, recognition program.
- Work/Life Balance: Extra days off, birthday off, voluntary hours.
- Your Wellbeing: company doctor, medical insurance, gym, health campaigns, employee assistance program, parental leave.
- Flexibility: Hybrid work model (for more professional roles), flexible schedules.
- Training: Training program, unlimited learning.
- Extra perks: employees association, and more…
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