Overview
A leading metal manufacturing business is seeking a highly capable Senior Material Planner to oversee material availability, optimise inventory, and ensure seamless production flow across a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment. This role requires strong analytical capability, excellent stakeholder management, and the ability to work under pressure while maintaining accuracy and control.
The Senior Material Planner will play a key part in driving OTIF performance, improving inventory turns, and ensuring that all raw materials, metals, bought‑in components, and consumables are available to support production schedules.
Key Responsibilities
Material Planning & Scheduling
Develop and maintain material plans aligning with production schedules, capacity plans, and customer demand.
Ensure the timely availability of raw materials (steel, aluminium, castings, forgings, etc.) and critical components.
Monitor MRP signals, stock levels, reorder points, and safety stock to maintain optimal inventory.
Manage short‑ and long‑term material requirements, highlighting shortages or risks early.
Analyse demand patterns and lead times to refine planning parameters and reduce excess inventory.
Supplier & Stakeholder Management
Work closely with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery, resolve issues, and mitigate risks.
Lead weekly/daily supplier reviews to monitor performance, lead times, and potential bottlenecks.
Escalate and resolve supply chain issues that threaten production continuity.
Collaborate with Production, Purchasing, Quality, and Logistics teams to ensure end‑to‑end supply stability.
Inventory & Data Management
Maintain accurate inventory records and conduct regular stock audits.
Reduce obsolete/slow-moving materials through proactive planning and root‑cause analysis.
Analyse MRP data, forecasts, and Bill of Materials to ensure alignment and accuracy.
Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities in planning processes, stock accuracy, and ERP usage.
Problem Solving & Performance Improvement
Lead root‑cause analysis for material shortages or planning failures.
Support production meetings with clear updates on shortages and recovery plans.
Drive improvements in OTIF, supplier performance, and inventory turns.
Support NPI projects with robust material plans, ensuring all components are available for prototype and launch phases.
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
Strong experience in material planning within a metal manufacturing, heavy engineering, automotive, or industrial environment.
Demonstrable experience of working with steel, metal components, castings, or similar materials.
Advanced understanding of MRP/ERP planning systems (any major system considered).
Strong Excel capability (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, data analysis).
Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment with tight deadlines.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Desirable
Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives (5S, Lean, Kaizen).
Understanding of machining, fabrication, welding, or metal processing operations.
Experience in a senior or lead planner position with mentoring responsibilities.
Personal Attributes
Highly organised with strong prioritisation ability.
Comfortable taking ownership and making decisions in pressurised situations.
Commercially aware with a proactive, problem‑solving mindset.
Confident communicator able to challenge, influence, and drive improvements.
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