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- Tasks: Lead materials planning and logistics for a top automotive supplier in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier known for innovative, high-quality components.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced industry, driving efficiency and making a real impact on production.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in MP&L or Supply Chain, with a degree in a related field.
- Other info: We value diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
My client is a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier, delivering innovative, high-quality components and systems to some of the world's most prestigious OEMs. Operating in a fast-paced, highly automated environment, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of MP&L to lead our materials planning and logistics function at our flagship site in Birmingham.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage all MP&L functions, including inbound logistics, material handling, production planning, inventory control, warehouse management, and outbound delivery.
- Develop and implement robust material flow strategies to support JIT/JIS manufacturing environments.
- Ensure accurate and efficient production scheduling, aligned with customer demand and production capacity.
- Drive inventory optimisation, balancing availability with working capital targets.
- Oversee and improve all logistics operations, including transportation, freight, and packaging solutions.
- Manage and develop relationships with key suppliers and logistics providers to ensure on-time delivery and performance compliance.
- Own and lead S&OE (Sales & Operations Execution) processes, ensuring effective communication and collaboration between MP&L, production, purchasing, and customer service teams.
- Develop and implement continuous improvement initiatives to increase material handling efficiency, reduce waste, and improve delivery metrics.
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and quality standards within the MP&L function.
- Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team across planning, logistics, and warehousing functions.
Key Skills & Experience:
- Proven leadership experience in MP&L or Supply Chain within a Tier 1 automotive manufacturing environment.
- Strong knowledge of JIT/JIS, lean manufacturing principles, and ERP/MRP systems.
- Excellent understanding of end-to-end material flow, from supplier to customer.
- Experience managing high-volume logistics, with a focus on operational excellence and cost control.
- Effective communicator with strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
- Track record of delivering results through process improvement and team development.
- Degree-qualified (or equivalent) in Supply Chain, Engineering, Operations, or related field.
At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.
Contact Detail:
Gleeson Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Material Planning & Logistics (MP&L)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the automotive supply chain sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with individuals who may have insights into the company and its culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends in JIT/JIS manufacturing and lean principles. Being knowledgeable about current practices will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've improved logistics operations or inventory management in previous roles. Use metrics to showcase your achievements, as this will highlight your capability to drive results.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's key suppliers and logistics providers. Understanding their partnerships can give you an edge in discussions about how you would manage and develop these relationships effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Material Planning & Logistics (MP&L)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in materials planning and logistics, particularly within a Tier 1 automotive environment. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and knowledge of JIT/JIS principles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying to this role. Emphasise your proven track record in MP&L, your understanding of supply chain dynamics, and how you can contribute to the company's success.
Highlight Key Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements that showcase your ability to drive inventory optimisation and improve logistics operations. This could be in terms of cost savings, efficiency improvements, or successful project completions.
Review and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly review your documents for any errors or inconsistencies. Ensure that your language is professional and that your application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gleeson Recruitment Group
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of MP&L, demonstrating your leadership experience is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on your ability to develop and coach high-performing individuals.
✨Understand JIT/JIS Principles
Make sure you have a solid grasp of Just-In-Time (JIT) and Just-In-Sequence (JIS) manufacturing principles. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these strategies in previous roles to optimise material flow and reduce waste.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in logistics and material planning. Think about challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, particularly in high-volume environments.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management
Effective communication with stakeholders is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've managed relationships with suppliers and logistics providers, ensuring on-time delivery and compliance with performance metrics.
