Operations Planner

Basic Function

The Operations Planner creates and maintains the manufacturing schedule based upon demand planning, internal capacity constraints and factors affecting schedule compliance. They track manufacturing progress, execute ERP processes and report functions, and provide timely data and information used to drive the business’ decision making process.

The Operations Planner leads the weekly Integrated Production Team meetings and is the primary liaison to other functional groups (e.g., supply chain, inspection, quality assurance, production engineering, contracts, programmes, transportation).

Workflow management includes the issuing of works order paperwork to work centres on a daily basis to initiate manufacturing, and controlling any amendments in line with our traceable manufacturing processes.

The post holder will be fully aware of all current work and both near and long term forecasts on all manufacturing work centres. This includes responsibility for monitoring material inventories, tracking manufacturing progress and reviewing production schedule utilization, monitoring and maintaining the planning system parameters including lead times, lot sizes, resource allocation, cycle times and other factors contributing to the effective execution of the schedule.

Reporting Relationship:Reports to the Operations Manager.

Knowledge & Ability Required

• Strong team-working and leadership experience, with the drive and flexibility to maintain pace of work as priorities and requirements change.
• Motivation and initiative, working equally well from the office or shop floor, with demonstrated time management, prioritization and organizational skills.
• Experience in production scheduling and material planning using MRP / ERP tools.
• Degree in business, supply chain, logistics, operations/engineering or related field OR equivalent experience in a manufacturing or production environment Proficiency with standard Microsoft Office tools.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong multi-tasking abilities.
• The ability to obtain UK Security Clearance.
• The post holder will desirably have, or will be able to develop Expert user status in Syteline ERP. Note that in 2012 the client are implementing a transition from a legacy MRP system (MAX) to a new ERP system (candidate system is Syteline from Infor, with an APS module).
• The post holder will be expected to be, or become, an expert user in both systems, as well as our shop floor data capture tools and processes and will be a key member of the ERP implementation and support team.
• Knowledge and understanding of the challenges of technology development, new product development, new product introduction and series production.
• Good commercial acumen.
• Commitment to continuing professional development and education.
• 5 years experience of production planning and scheduling, with 2 years’ finite scheduling experience.
• Ability to understand supply chain and manufacturing constraints and apply concepts to an overall plan.