Production Planner (74443) at Ntice Sourcing Solutions

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