LES WHOBREY
Lexington
Summary
Dynamic and customer-focused supply chain professional with a proven track record in developing effective sourcing strategies and making informed decisions. Recognized for exceptional problem-solving abilities and expertise in planning, negotiating, and establishing cost standards, while continuously identifying opportunities for improvement. Detail-oriented and innovative thinker adept at devising solutions that align with business objectives and consistently exceed expectations. Committed to driving operational efficiency and enhancing customer satisfaction through strategic supply chain management, with extensive experience in optimizing inventory management, logistics operations, and vendor relationships. Fosters collaboration with cross-functional teams to maximize engagement and support corporate goals.
Diligent [Desired Position] with solid background in overseeing inventory management and supply chain operations. Successfully led initiatives to streamline procurement processes and reduce costs. Demonstrated proficiency in vendor management and team leadership.
Professional materials management expert with extensive knowledge in inventory control, procurement, and logistics. Proven ability to optimize supply chain processes, ensuring cost-efficiency and timely delivery. Strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results, adapting seamlessly to changing demands. Renowned for strategic planning, problem-solving, and effective communication skills.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Materials Manager
SMC
Nicholasville, KY
04.2025 - 10.2025
- Designed and partially deployed a stock locator computer system, streamlining operations for an electrical PCB manufacturer and assembler.
- Supervised shipping and receiving processes, material control, and production reporting through a dedicated team of six personnel.
- Analyzed data and generated reports for management, enhancing operational insights and oversight.
- Created and initiated inventory control process and electronic system, streamlining inventory management procedures.
- Developed and implemented training modules focused on achieving required certification standards.
- I was part of plant lay-off in October 2025.
Supply Chain Manager/Operations Manager
ElectraMet (Powertech Water)
Lexington, KY
02.2022 - 04.2025
- Implemented strategic changes to transition research and development facility into a fully functional manufacturing operation.
- Established and executed comprehensive processes for vendor approval, inventory purchasing, production scheduling, and equipment returns to enhance operational efficiency.
- Managed vendor relationships by resolving pricing terms and mitigating late delivery challenges.
- Executed implementation of NetSuite ERP modules for purchasing and production scheduling.
- Conducted thorough audits and process improvements, resulting in inventory accuracy surpassing 99.8%.
- Supervised staff in supply chain and production operations, focusing on optimizing processes and resource allocation.
- Supervised maintenance activities, focusing on safety protocols and facility upkeep.
- Coordinated sourcing efforts for electrochemical materials and equipment by engaging with various departments.
- Directed production planning and supervised equipment assembly processes.
- Administered bill of materials and item masters to ensure accurate inventory management in NetSuite ERP system.
- Directed cross-functional teams to optimize supply chain efficiency and minimize costs.
- Designed and deployed inventory management strategies aimed at maintaining optimal stock levels.
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce costs.
- Developed and implemented inventory management strategies to optimize stock levels.
Materials Manager
Taica Cubic Printing
Winchester, KY
07.2013 - 12.2021
- Proactively implemented best practices, managed inventory, and directed domestic and international procurement of all raw material and maintenance repair and operational (MRO) supplies to support unique material and processing technologies.
- Supervised the department, and oversaw shipping, receiving, and customer service activities.
- Designed and acquired packaging, produced and maintain production schedules, selected carriers, and coordinated inbound freight.
- Analyzed key performance indicators (KPI’s), researched and recommended change and executed actionable plans to drive cost-savings.
- Efficiently tracked information and generated reports for executive management and accountability for departmental budgets.
- Assisted in monthly and year-end closings, accounts payable (A/P), and financial activities.
- Acted as a Subject Matter Expert for all information technology (IT), including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) integrated management, system administration, and aid in request for quotations (RFQ) and program management.
- Taica-Con’t:
- Strategically devise purchasing strategies, establish positive, sustainable relationships, and act as a liaison between Taica, suppliers, and customers, resolving issues promptly and professionally.
- Daily production and material planning activities using MRP functions.
- Provide leadership and collaborate with internal departments to facilitate problem-solving activities and develop data-driven solutions.
- Motivate departments to achieve results, fill orders accurately and meet deadlines.
- Innovatively set up the materials department of a new Tier 2 facility, resulting in 99.6% accuracies in physical inventory, 100% on-time delivery, and 100% safety.
- Administrator for ERP system.
- Maintained bill of materials and item masters in the Infor ERP system.
Senior Buyer
Clopay Plastics
Augusta, KY
08.2007 - 04.2013
- Performed detailed analysis of supply needs and managed procurement processes, securing essential materials for ISO-certified manufacturing operations.
- Evaluated and enforced purchasing agreements, tracking cost schedules and supplier compliance to maintain high-quality standards and timely deliveries.
- Collaborated with quality control department to design and implement comprehensive supplier evaluations.
- Developed sourcing strategies, organized supplier selection and qualification, and negotiated purchasing programs to optimize cost savings and minimize on-hand inventory.
- Oversaw administration of computerized silo measuring system, ensuring optimal functionality.
- Designed packaging to fulfill requirements and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Coordinated efforts to maintain precise bill-of-materials while resolving issues related to purchase order receipts and invoice discrepancies.
- Directed annual purchasing operations totaling $74,000,000, ensuring 99.7% physical inventory accuracy.
- Led design and implementation of raw material kanban warehouse layout to optimize inventory management.
- Facilitated the transportation of plastic resins by coordinating truck and rail deliveries to meet operational demands.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Business Communications
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KYSkills
- Experienced in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Visio
- Strand Ware, and Bar Tender labeling
- QAD/Mfg Pro ERP proficiency
- Oracle ERP
- Syteline ERP proficiency
- NetSuite ERP expertise
Certification
Department of Transportation (DOT) Hazardous Materials Certification
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
- Research/Negotiation
- Supply Chain Systems
- Forecasting/Budgeting
- Planning/Development
- Purchasing Procedures
- Inventory Management
- Production Management
- Resources Procurement
- Contract Management
- Shipping & Receiving
- Department Management
- Facility Development
- KPI Tracking
- Problem Resolution
Timeline
Materials Manager
SMC
04.2025 - 10.2025
Supply Chain Manager/Operations Manager
ElectraMet (Powertech Water)
02.2022 - 04.2025
Materials Manager
Taica Cubic Printing
07.2013 - 12.2021
Senior Buyer
Clopay Plastics
08.2007 - 04.2013
Bachelor of Arts - Business Communications
University of Kentucky