Production Planner (74443)

Job Description

• An exciting opportunity awaits an experienced and results-driven Production Planner to make a meaningful impact within a fast-paced FMCG manufacturing environment.

• This pivotal role is responsible for driving operational efficiency and optimising end-to-end manufacturing and supply chain performance across production planning and scheduling, demand forecasting, inventory and warehouse management, procurement, and continuous improvement

• The successful candidate will play a key role in aligning production requirements with business demand, ensuring the timely availability of materials, maintaining optimal stock levels, and maximising resource utilisation.

• With a strong focus on efficiency, cost control, and continuous improvement, this role is ideal for a strategic thinker who can navigate complex planning challenges, lead cross-functional collaboration, and ensure production objectives are consistently achieved

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and maintain short- and long-term production plans to meet business demand

• Use SAP or other ERP systems to manage production schedules, inventory, and material requirements

• Monitor production plan adherence, capacity utilisation, and key performance indicators (KPIs)

• Identify and resolve production constraints, scheduling challenges, and operational inefficiencies

• Ensure the timely availability of raw materials, packaging, and other production components

• Monitor inventory levels and implement effective stock management practices to minimise excess stock, shortages, and write-offs

• Oversee warehouse operations, stock movements, and inventory control processes

• Coordinate demand forecasting, procurement, and supplier activities

• Prepare and present regular production, inventory, and performance reports

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, efficiency, and cost effectiveness

• Collaborate with production, procurement, warehousing, finance, quality, and other relevant departments

• Lead, coach, and support team members to achieve operational objectives

• Ensure compliance with relevant quality, audit, inventory management, and internal control requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Business Administration, Inventory Management, or a related field

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in production planning, manufacturing, inventory management, and/or supply chain roles within an FMCG environment

• Experience with production planning and inventory management systems, preferably SAP

• Demonstrated experience in production scheduling, demand forecasting, material planning, and inventory control

• Experience with audits and inventory-related internal controls

• Proven leadership and team management capabilities

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and organisational skills

Advantageous

• APICS certification

• Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

• Experience with capacity planning, continuous improvement programmes, and manufacturing performance optimisation

• Knowledge of manufacturing cost control, supplier management, and production efficiency metrics

Key Competencies

• Production and supply chain planning

• Inventory and warehouse management

• Analytical thinking and problem-solving

• Leadership, coaching, and team development

• Strong communication and stakeholder management

• Strategic planning and organisation

• Continuous improvement and cost optimisation

• Deadline-driven, proactive, and results-oriented approach