Material Planner & Master Data Controller Overview of the Company Our manufacturing/Engineering clients are known for exceptional product quality, cutting-edge innovation, and a people-first culture. Operating from their facility in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, they combine state-of-the-art technology and streamlined processes to create high-performance, made-to-measure steel doors. As part of the ongoing expansion, we are investing in both our people and our infrastructure to ensure we deliver on our promise to protect people and exceed customer expectations. Main Purpose of the Role The Material Planner is responsible for ensuring the timely and cost-effective procurement and availability of materials required for production. This role involves coordinating with suppliers, monitoring inventory levels and aligning material supply with production demand to avoid shortages or excess stock. The planner plays a critical role in maintaining smooth operations within the supply chain and production departments. Scope of the Role Inventory management Supplier Coordination Production Support Reporting Material Requirements Planning Master Data Maintenance Job Description Primary Objectives Plan and schedule material requirements based on production forecasts, sales orders, and inventory targets. Monitor inventory levels to ensure materials are available when needed without overstocking. Coordinate with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials and resolve issues related to delays, shortages, or quality. Maintain accurate data in ERP systems related to purchase orders, lead times, material master data, and inventory records. Collaborate with production, procurement, and warehouse teams to manage material flow and meet production schedules. Review and adjust safety stock levels, reorder points, and lot sizes based on usage patterns and demand fluctuations. Generate reports on material status, inventory health, and supplier performance. Support cost-reduction initiatives by identifying more efficient material sourcing or planning methods. Participate in regular meetings to update stakeholders on material availability and potential risks. Primary Measures of Effectiveness On-time delivery (OTD) of materials Material availability for production Stock-out frequency Inventory accuracy Data accuracy rate Involvement in new and ongoing master data initiatives Secondary Objectives Act as a liaison between supply chain, procurement, production, finance, and IT to align priorities and resolve issues. Proactively identify supply chain risks (e.g., supplier delays, material shortages) and propose contingency plans. Contribute to sustainability goals by optimizing inventory to reduce waste. Identify opportunities for cost savings through improved data accuracy and more efficient planning. Qualifications, Skills and Experience Required for Role Qualifications: 25 years of experience in material planning, supply chain, or procurement. Strong understanding of material planning concepts such as MRP, safety stock, and lead times. Proficiency with ERP systems. Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with planning tools or software. Strong organizational and time-management skills. Preferred Qualifications: CIPS certification. Experience in a manufacturing or production planning environment. Knowledge of lean manufacturing or just-in-time (JIT) principles. Skills: Attention to detail and analytical thinking. Effective communication and negotiation skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Team-oriented with a proactive and solution-focused mindset. Key Relationships Management, Employees, External Regulatory Agencies, and Contractors. We are looking for someone with: Attention to detail Strong communication skills Problem-solving ability Analytical skills Resilience and persistence Calm under pressure Company Benefits Discretionary Company Sick Pay, following 6 months service. Company Pension Scheme. Employee Assistance Programme. On-site parking. Health cash plan Scheme Birthday Holiday: Your birthday off if it falls on a workday Cycle to work scheme: The Company operates a cycle to work scheme. Eye test voucher