Planning and Inventory Lead– Engineering & Manufacturing Progression to Operations Manager
Portsmouth £Competitive Benefits Clear Career Progression
Are you a materials or supply chain professional with a passion for planning, systems, and operational excellence?
We’re hiring for a Planning and Inventory Leadto join a leading engineering and manufacturing business based in Portsmouth. This is a hands-on, strategically vital role for someone ready to own planning, materials management and logistics – while driving continuous improvement across the site.
Most importantly, this role comes with a defined progression plan into an Operations Manager position within 12–18 months.
What You’ll Be Doing:
* Implement and refine MRP/ERP planning processes, transitioning manual planning into system-driven workflows
* Lead production planning, inventory control, and logistics, ensuring materials availability aligns with production schedules
* Analyse data to drive forecasting, cost optimisation, and improved delivery performance
* Drive improvements in demand planning, stock accuracy, and production readiness
* Ensure all goods in/out operations meet commercial and compliance standards (export, customs, CofC)
* Collaborate with supply chain and customer service to ensure seamless order fulfilment
* Provide leadership to a small but capable team, setting goals, coaching, and growing talent
What We’re Looking For:
* Proven experience in a manufacturing/engineering environment – ideally in a high-reliability or technical product setting
* Strong working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems – with experience improving planning and inventory processes
* Confident in demand forecasting, analytics, and translating data into actions
* A natural problem solver and process improver – with a hands-on attitude across production, planning, and logistics
* Ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams with energy and clarity
* Experience working to ISO9001/AS9100 standards would be highly desirable
Why Join?
* Be the key driver of change as the business transitions its planning and materials control
* Join a forward-thinking and growing engineering business
* Work in a collaborative team, with support from senior leadership
* Defined career pathway into Operations Manager role within 12–18 months
* Competitive salary, bonus scheme, private healthcare, and more
If you're looking for a role where you can roll up your sleeves, build smarter processes, and grow into a senior operational leader, this is your opportunity.
Apply now or get in touch for a confidential discussion.
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