Planning Manager

The Planning Manager is responsible for implementing and maintaining demand planning and production scheduling through the management of the Planning team. Responsibilities include demand forecasting, capacity planning, customer scheduling. This is a permanent position based in Plymouth, Devon. 

Key Responsibilities - 

• Develop, implement and monitor production plans to achieve On Time In Full for customers.


• Oversee the Production planning processes to ensure efficient workflow and resource allocation.


• Work closely and collaboratively with Manufacturing team to assess/ forecast demand, ensuring production plans are aligned with sales targets.


• Utilize ERP systems to optimize supply chain operations and enhance continuous improvement initiatives


• Collaboration with the supply chain team to monitor inventory levels and adjust production schedules accordingly to meet demand.


• Ensure inventory is aligned with production needs and working capital requirements to optimise stock levels whilst avoiding excess inventory.


• Manage arrears profile


• Analyses historical data to improve forecasting accuracy and develop reliable sales forecasts and revenue plans.


• Responsibility for the training and development, performance management and daily supervision of the Planning team.  


• Maintain WIP inventory in accordance with demand.


• Co-ordinate production plans based on capacity and material readiness.


• Seek out continuous improvement initiatives related to manufacturing capacity and inventory optimization.


• Manage respective supplier/ customer relationships and performance.

Essential Requirements - 

• Minimum of a Degree level qualification in Business Management, Supply Chain, Engineering or a related field.


• Strong  knowledge of Factory Planning methodologies and integrated ERP systems.  


• Proven experience in a production planning or supply chain management role, within a Manufacturing environment.


• Expertise with SAP would be highly desirable, in particular Production Planning, Materials Management and Advanced Planning & Scheduling modules.


• Experience in system integration and reporting tools as well as demand forecasting software.


• Advanced Microsoft Excel Skills (Including pivot tables, data analysis)


• Good grasp of the impact of Operational Planning across Commercial, Financial and Customer Service metrics.


• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, supply chain management and inventory control.


• Experience in lean manufacturing and/or Six Sigma methodologies would be highly desirable. 


• Possess drive and enthusiasm to be a champion for the Planning Department.


• Demonstrate and align with the values of the Company demonstrating honesty, integrity, customer service focus, quality focus, excellence, and innovation.


• Possess a leadership style that focuses on people and be able to inspire trust.


• Long-range perspective and a strong desire to challenge the status-quo.


• A proactive and self-motivated, commercially focused individual with the ability to lead and drive systems and business changes to ensure on time delivery of materials to production and customers.


• Proven leadership skills.


• A flexible and dynamic approach, comfortable with changing schedules.


• Demonstrated ability to work in a cross-functional environment and to work with key Stakeholders at various levels.


• High levels of productivity and integrity.


• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with employees, Stakeholders and customers.


• A passion for success and a sense of urgency to execute deadlines.


• Expertise in negotiation with ability to influence and build effective relationships


• Excellent IT skills- particularly in MS Excel V-Lookup and Pivot Table functions with SAP being highly desirable.


• Comfortable working under pressure.


• Effective organisational ability and detail-orientated.


• Approach work with high levels of energy and be creative and innovative.


• Willingness to travel in accordance with business needs.


• Ability to self-motivate, multi-task and work independently.


• Ability to achieve a satisfactory result in a company medical, Drug and Alcohol test (hair follicle) and an executive background check.