Job Description
Production Planning Manager - Manufacturing Sector
Location: Hailsham, East Sussex
Salary: Competitive (Full-Time, Permanent)
Note: You must have experience in master production scheduling / production scheduling.
Are you ready to take the next step in your career? A growing and fast-paced manufacturing business is seeking a skilled and driven Purchasing & Planning Manager to lead its procurement and scheduling operations. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced supply chain professional to make a real impact in a thriving organization.
About the Role
As the Purchasing & Planning Manager, you will take ownership of the master production schedule, aligning factory output with customer requirements and supply chain capabilities.
This role combines strategic procurement with hands-on production planning, requiring a confident leader who can manage resources, negotiate effectively with suppliers, and streamline operations to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery. You will play a key role in identifying bottlenecks, forecasting capacity, and driving long-term improvements across the supply chain.
Key Responsibilities
1. Maintain and manage the master production schedule to meet customer deadlines.
2. Coordinate raw materials, subcontract operations, and factory resources efficiently.
3. Match customer demand with supply chain capacity, identifying any gaps early.
4. Develop supplier performance through scorecards and regular reviews.
5. Negotiate long-term supply agreements to mitigate price fluctuations and safeguard supply continuity.
6. Deliver strategic procurement initiatives that reduce costs year-on-year.
Required Skills & Experience
* At least 5 years of experience in procurement and production planning within a manufacturing setting.
* Strong knowledge of MRP systems and their integration with manufacturing operations.
* Proven team management experience.
* A structured, analytical approach with excellent attention to detail.
* The ability to prioritize and respond quickly to changing requirements.
* Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Desirable Attributes
* A degree in a relevant field.
* At least 3 years of hands-on buying experience.
* Engineering knowledge, particularly machining and assembly processes, is an advantage.
Qualifications
* Minimum of 5 years planning experience.
* Minimum of 5 years management experience.
Personal Qualities
* Excellent communicator with a practical, 'can-do' attitude.
* Proactive and organized, capable of managing your own time and delivering results.
* A doer who makes things happen and leads by example.
If you are a confident and capable Production Planning Manager ready to make a difference, apply now with an up-to-date CV and take the next step in your supply chain career.
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