Role Overview:
We are seeking a proactive and experienced Planning Manager to lead the Planning function within our Supply Chain division. This role is ideal for a motivated leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about continuous improvement, cross-functional collaboration, and people development.
Managing a dedicated team, you will oversee the end-to-end planning lifecycle, while also driving strategic initiatives that enhance efficiency, improve forecasting accuracy, and support the business in meeting customer demands worldwide.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Lead, manage, and develop a team, overseeing build schedules and shipping plans.
2. Monitor and manage global sales forecasts, anticipating and responding to demand fluctuations.
3. Ensure accurate and timely material management through effective use of MRP systems.
4. Oversee production plans, escalating issues where necessary to meet deadlines.
5. Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Purchasing, and other stakeholders to align planning with customer requirements.
6. Maintain forward visibility on new product developments and assess the impact to production schedules.
7. Manage production control-related data to drive efficiency and continuous improvement.
8. Coach, develop and support the team encouraging personal and professional growth.
9. Prepare, analyse, and present reports and planning insights to senior management.
10. Manage inventory effectively, balancing production capability with customer demand.
11. Drive continuous improvement to streamline planning processes, reducing lead times.
12. Support risk management activities by developing contingency plans for supply chain disruptions.
13. Contribute to strategic capacity planning and long-term operational strategy.
14. Collaborate with global Sony sites to align best practices and share knowledge.
Essential Criteria:
15. Demonstrated experience in capacity planning within a manufacturing environment.
16. Previous experience managing or supervising a team.
17. Strong interpersonal and leadership skills; lead by example and motivate others.
18. Confident communicator able to interact with all levels across the business.
19. Well-organised and able to manage deadlines under pressure.
20. Strong analytical skills and high attention to detail.
21. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and Windows operating systems.
22. Able and willing to learn new systems and processes.
Desirable Criteria:
23. Experience working with Oracle systems or similar ERP/MRP platforms.
24. Exposure to functions including Production, Purchasing, Engineering, or Materials Control.
25. Prior experience in an electronics manufacturing environment would be advantageous.
What we offer:
26. A competitive salary
27. Generous company pension scheme
28. Generous life assurance
29. 33 days annual leave inclusive of public holidays
30. Long service holiday days
31. Complimentary onsite secure car park
32. Onsite gym and changing facilities
33. Subsidised canteen
34. Onsite Learning & Development Academy
35. Private medical insurance
36. Complimentary access to school holiday schemes
37. Exclusive ‘Staff Sales’ site for Sony products
38. Generous family friendly policies
39. ‘Refer a Friend’ recruitment scheme
40. Access to Employee Assistance Programme