We are seeking a Production Planner to become the central hub of our production operations. You will be responsible for orchestrating the complex scheduling of our
11 retail packaging lines
, ensuring we can meet the dynamic demands of our retail customer.
In this fast-paced role, you will translate sales forecasts and customer orders into an efficient and achievable daily and weekly production plan. Your goal is to optimise capacity, minimise downtime, and ensure the seamless flow of production, from raw material intake to finished, retail-ready packaged goods.
* Production Scheduling-
Develop, maintain, and communicate detailed production schedules for all 11 packing lines, balancing competing priorities and ensuring on-time fulfilment of orders.
* Efficiency and Optimisation-
Continuously monitor production performance against the plan. Identify opportunities to improve line efficiency, reduce changeover times, minimise waste and enhance overall productivity. Close lines early if appropriate.
* Capacity Planning-
Analyse production capacity, including machine availability and labour resources, to create realistic and efficient plans. Proactively identify potential bottlenecks and collaborate with the production team to find solutions.
* Liaise with production manager
and supervisors to ensure schedule is suitable
* Materials Coordination-
Work in close partnership with the Demand planner and Procurement manager to ensure the timely availability of all necessary raw materials, ingredients, and, crucially,
retail packaging materials
(trays, film, labels, sleeves).
* Stakeholder Collaboration-
Act as the key liaison between the Production Supervisors, Quality Assurance, Warehouse, and Supply Chain teams to ensure smooth communication and alignment on the daily plan.
* Report on the status-
of scheduled production using KPI's. Ensure we have a positive OTIF (on time in full) KPI.
* Deal with disruption-
liaise with Maintenance Supervisor be aware of unplanned maintenance shut down & scheduled machine services.
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
* 6+ years of experience in a production planning or scheduling role, ideally within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
* Proven experience in a Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (
FMCG
) environment is essential, with a strong understanding of the demands of retail supply chains.
* Exceptional analytical and numerical skills, with high proficiency in Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, formulas).
* Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to collaborate effectively across all levels of the organisation.
Desirable Skills:
* Experience in the food manufacturing or fresh produce industry is highly advantageous.
* A third-level degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Business, or a related field.
* Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, SMED).