Job Title: Material Planner
Location: Walsall, UK
Reports To: Procurement Manager
Industry: Construction Products / Distribution
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Material Planner to join a leading supplier of construction and safety products. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring materials and products are available to meet customer demand while optimising inventory levels and supporting business efficiency. This is a great opportunity to join a dynamic, fast-paced organisation where collaboration and continuous improvement are at the heart of operations.
Key Responsibilities
Planning & Inventory Management
* Develop and maintain material planning parameters (safety stock, lead times, reorder points) within the ERP/MRP system.
* Monitor forecasts, customer orders, and usage trends to create accurate material requirement plans.
* Maintain optimal inventory levels to balance customer service and working capital.
* Identify and address slow-moving or obsolete stock, recommending appropriate actions.
Supplier & Procurement Support
* Work closely with the procurement team to raise and manage purchase orders in line with demand.
* Monitor supplier performance (delivery accuracy, lead times, and quality).
* Liaise with suppliers to resolve shortages, delays, and discrepancies.
* Escalate risks and propose mitigation strategies when supply issues arise.
Operational Coordination
* Collaborate with warehouse and logistics teams to ensure efficient receipt, storage, and rotation of stock.
* Support sales and customer service teams with stock availability and order fulfilment queries.
* Coordinate inbound deliveries to maintain consistent product flow.
Reporting & Continuous Improvement
* Produce regular reports on stock levels, forecast accuracy, and supplier performance.
* Support the Procurement Manager with KPI tracking, including service levels, stock turns, and cost savings.
* Analyse demand and supply trends, identifying opportunities for process and performance improvement.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
* Stock availability and service levels
* Inventory accuracy and stock turns
* Supplier on-time delivery
* Reduction in obsolete or slow-moving stock
* Forecast accuracy
Person Specification
Essential:
* Previous experience in material planning, inventory management, or procurement (ideally within a distribution or wholesale environment)
* Working knowledge of ERP/MRP and CRM systems
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
* Computer literate with proficiency in Excel and data-driven reporting
Desirable:
* CIPS qualification or working towards
* Experience working in a data-driven or continuous improvement environment
What’s on Offer
* Competitive salary and benefits package
* Opportunity to work within a forward-thinking, customer-focused business
* Supportive team environment with opportunities for professional growth and development