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
