Job Description

Overview

Optimize production by aligning it with demand through advanced resource planning and scheduling techniques. This involves leveraging sales forecasts to efficiently plan production, ensuring customer service targets are met, and profitability is maximized

Responsibilities

Responsible for preparing, presenting, and distributing production plans, and for coordinating and communicating any changes to ensure alignment across all departments. Develop and maintain comprehensive weekly and 20 week rolling production plans for all mixes, inclusions, moulding, and finished products, considering demand forecasts, raw material availability, processing capacity, maintenance schedules, and lead times. Maintain accurate master data in SAP/MRP (e.g., lead times, lot sizes, BOMs). Chair and participate in weekly planning meetings with Production, Procurement, Stores, Sales, and other key departments to ensure cross-functional coordination. Attend and contribute to daily DWOR meetings to support short-term planning and issue resolution.
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Monitor daily and weekly production progress against plan and identify potential risks or deviations early. Implement and effectively utilise the MRP module within SAP to improve planning accuracy and efficiency. Use the ERP systems in place to manage day-to-day production planning activities. Create and input daily production orders for all departments in a timely and accurate manner. Analyse production data to identify opportunities for improving efficiency, yield, and cost control. Collaborate with Procurement, Sales, Operations, and Quality teams to ensure smooth production flow and alignment with business objectives. Develop and maintain production planning sheets in line with current factory standards across all departments. Manage and oversee purchase orders for milk and cream, ensuring timely placement and accuracy. Monitor inventory levels of milk and cream to maintain balance between supply and demand while minimising waste and carrying costs. Track production progress daily and proactively address any issues that may impact delivery schedules or product quality. Conduct performance analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of production plans and identify continuous improvement opportunities. Provide planning insights and recommendations to enhance production processes and systems. Leverage production planning expertise to optimise scheduling, anticipate demand fluctuations, and mitigate potential risks. Ensure clear and comprehensive process notes are documented for effective handover and business continuity during periods of absence or holidays. Support internal and external audits related to planning, traceability, and stock control. Provide cover for the Procurement function during periods of absence or annual leave. Stay up to date with industry trends and best practices in production planning and implement improvements where applicable. Promote and maintain high standards of Health & Safety, ensuring all planning activities comply with company policies and legal requirements.

Skills

Acts as a champion of Mackie's, supporting the aims, values, and strategic direction of the business. Strategic thinker and confident decision-maker, balancing short-term operational needs with long-term business objectives. Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing demands. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage effectively across departments. Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, using data and logical reasoning to identify issues and drive improvements. Proven team-working ability, fostering a cooperative environment and building positive relationships with colleagues across the business. Self-motivated with the ability to motivate others. Committed to accuracy, efficiency, and continuous improvement in all planning processes. Leads by example, upholding high standards of behaviour, safety, and performance.

Experience & Qualifications

Proven experience in a production planning, scheduling or coordination role within a manufacturing or FMCG environment (food industry preferred). Understanding of production processes for ice cream, chocolate, inclusions, sauces and moulding (desirable) Strong understanding of material planning, and inventory management. Good technical and IT skills, with experience in integrated operating systems like SAP.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From 29,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Employee discount Free parking On-site parking Private medical insurance
Application question(s):

Must be able to drive to Location
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person