Role Purpose
The Production Planner is responsible for producing realistic, efficient production schedules that ensure customer orders are met on time, materials are available, and manufacturing resources are optimised. The role ensures the smooth coordination of people, processes, and materials across the manufacturing operation.
Key Responsibilities
1. Production Planning & Scheduling
Create and maintain daily/weekly/monthly production schedules.
Interpret customer orders, forecasts, and MRP outputs into achievable plans.
Plan capacity, labour, and machine requirements to meet demand.
Adjust schedules proactively to manage changes, delays, breakdowns, or shortages.2. Material & Inventory Coordination
Ensure material availability aligns with production demands.
Work closely with Procurement to prevent shortages and reduce excess stock.
Monitor inventory levels, WIP, and material movements to maintain accuracy.3. Operations & Cross‑Functional Collaboration
Liaise with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Logistics to ensure smooth workflow.
Communicate schedule updates, risks, and changes across departments.
Support new product introduction (NPI) planning with timelines and resource coordination.4. Performance Tracking & Reporting
Track production performance against plan, identifying issues and bottlenecks.
Report key planning metrics: OTIF, schedule adherence, capacity utilisation, etc.
Maintain accurate ERP/MRP data and planning parameters.5. Continuous Improvement
Evaluate planning processes and propose efficiency improvements.
Participate in Lean, Kaizen, and operational excellence initiatives.
Contribute to reducing downtime, lead times, and planning errors.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
On-Time-In-Full (OTIF) delivery
Schedule adherence
Production efficiency/utilisation
Inventory accuracy & material availability
Lead-time reduction
ERP/MRP data accuracySkills & Experience Required
Essential
Experience in a Production Planner, Scheduler, or similar manufacturing role.
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and capacity planning.
Competent with ERP/MRP systems
Excellent analytical and problem‑solving ability.
Strong communication skills and ability to work cross‑functionally.
Proficiency in Excel and planning tools.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a manufacturing environment.Desirable
Experience in for e.g., manufacturing or engineering, FMCG, automotive, aerospace within a planning bias would be highly advantageous
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement methods would be advantageous
Data analysis skills
Salary description
£33000.00 - £37000.00 per year