Material planner

Great opportunity to progress your career

This medium-sized organisation operates in the industrial/manufacturing sector and is renowned for its commitment to excellence in production and supply chain management. It fosters a professional environment and places a strong emphasis on operational efficiencies.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Material Planning Manager to oversee and optimise our stock and supplier management processes. This role is key to ensuring that production lines are continuously and efficiently supplied with the right materials, at the right time, and at the right cost.

Responsibilities

Stock Management

• Develop and maintain optimal stock levels across all material categories to support production while minimising working capital.
• Analyse demand forecasts and historical data to drive accurate material requirements planning (MRP).
• Monitor and report on stock accuracy, obsolescence, and slow-moving inventory; implement reduction strategies.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to streamline inventory control processes.
• Ensure materials are stored and handled in line with quality and safety standards.

Supplier Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure timely and consistent material availability.
• Monitor supplier performance using KPIs (e.g., OTIF – On Time In Full, quality, responsiveness) and lead regular performance reviews.
• Collaborate with procurement on sourcing strategies, supplier capacity planning, and risk mitigation.
• Act as the primary escalation point for supplier delivery or quality issues affecting production.
• Work with suppliers to support lean initiatives and improve end-to-end supply chain efficiency.

Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Lead and develop a team of material planners, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Collaborate with production, procurement, engineering, and quality teams to ensure alignment of planning activities with business objectives.
• Contribute to ERP and systems development to improve planning and stock visibility.

Profile

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in material planning, inventory control, or supply chain management in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong background in supplier management and stock optimisation.
• Proficient in ERP/MRP systems and advanced Excel.
• Excellent analytical, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with experience managing teams.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced production environment.

Desirable:

• Experience in automotive, caravan, or similar assembly-based industries.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Familiarity with S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning) processes.

Job Offer

• A competitive salary of £35,000 to £40,000 per annum.
• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth within the procurement and supply chain department.
• A supportive and well-structured work environment in Bristol.
• Access to industry-leading tools and resources.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a Material Controller/Planner to advance their career in the industrial/manufacturing sector. If this role in Bristol aligns with your skills and aspirations, we encourage you to apply today!

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