A leading manufacturer located on the outskirts of Newark is seeking a detail-oriented Production Planner / Buyer to optimise the supply chain and production planning functions.
In this pivotal role, you will collaborate closely with the Operations Manager, Factory Manager, and Project Manager to oversee the entire production process, manage material procurement, and execute effective factory planning. Your contributions will be essential in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of this on-site facility, driving productivity and supporting their commitment to delivering high-quality products to their clients.
Key Responsibilities:
Production Planning:
• Use advanced Excel skills to create detailed production schedules, capacity plans, and forecasts. Provide analytical reports on performance metrics such as productivity, material usage, and efficiency.
• Work closely with the production and operations teams to ensure efficient workflow and optimal use of resources.
• Track factory headcount, ensuring staffing levels meet operational needs, and forecast future labour requirements.
• Continuously monitor production progress, identifying bottlenecks or delays, and implementing corrective actions.
• Monitor and adjust production plans as needed to accommodate changes in customer demand, supply availability, and production capacity.
Procurement & Inventory Management:
• Handle the procurement of all consumables and materials required for production.
• Manage the inventory of raw materials and finished products, ensuring stock levels are maintained to avoid disruptions in production.
• Establish strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating terms for the best prices and delivery times while ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality materials.
• Continuously evaluate supplier performance and seek opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.
• Collaborate closely with the operations team to forecast material requirements and adjust orders based on project timelines and factory capacity.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Work alongside the operations and project managers to plan production runs, allocate resources, and adjust priorities based on real-time data.
• Liaise with the sales team to ensure production schedules meet client expectations and project deadlines.
• Provide regular updates and reports on production status, material usage, and inventory levels to senior management.
• Work with the finance department to manage budgets, cost analyses, and inventory forecasts.
• Support the operations team in troubleshooting any production issues or delays.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the company’s planning and procurement processes.
Skills and Qualifications:
• Proven experience in production planning and procurement, ideally within a manufacturing or construction environment.
• Advanced Excel skills are essential, with the ability to create complex spreadsheets, analyse data, and generate reports.
• Strong understanding of inventory management, supply chain processes, and procurement principles.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and adapt to changing demands.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, project management, and suppliers.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritise tasks, and meet tight deadlines.
• Knowledge manufacturing or construction materials is an advantage.
• Proven experience in production planning, procurement, or a related role, ideally within manufacturing.
• Strong communication skills.
Production Planner
Production Buyer
Supply Chain Planner
Materials Planner
Procurement Specialist
Production Coordinator
Manufacturing Planner
Supply Chain Coordinator
Inventory Control Planner
Factory Planner
Operations Planner
Material Resource Planner
Manufacturing Buyer
Production Operations Specialist
Logistics Planner
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