At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage material supply and ensure timely delivery to support production needs.
- Company: Join a dynamic joint venture at a leading manufacturing site.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to transition into a new venture with exciting challenges ahead.
- Why this job: Be a key player in optimising supply chains and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in Supply Chain or related field; experience in material planning preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
As a Material Planner at our Skelmersdale manufacturing site, you will be responsible for ensuring the timely and efficient supply of materials from external suppliers to support production and business requirements. This role manages material availability, monitors supplier performance, expedites late deliveries, and works to reduce supply risk, excess inventory, and high minimum order quantities (MOQs). The Material Planner partners closely with quality, engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and suppliers to maintain continuity of supply while optimizing inventory and service levels.
Responsibilities
- Plan and manage inbound material supply to meet production schedules and customer demand.
- Place, monitor, and maintain purchase orders or supplier schedules in line with demand requirements.
- Ensure materials are delivered on time and in the correct quantities.
- Proactively identify and expedite material shortages, late deliveries, and supply risks.
- Challenge suppliers on overdue orders, missed delivery dates, and poor delivery performance.
- Work with suppliers to improve lead times, delivery reliability, flexibility, and communication.
- Review and challenge high MOQs to align purchases with actual business needs and inventory targets.
- Balance material availability with inventory control to avoid excess and obsolete stock.
- Track key planning parameters such as lead times, safety stock, reorder points, and order quantities.
- Collaborate with sourcing/procurement teams on supplier performance and supply improvement actions.
- Support issue resolution related to quality holds, shipment delays, customs/logistics issues, and capacity constraints.
- Maintain accurate material planning data in ERP/MRP systems.
- Participate in S&OP, supply reviews, or planning meetings as required.
- Generate and analyse reports on shortages, supplier performance, inventory levels, and past‑due orders.
- Drive continuous improvement in planning processes, supplier responsiveness, and inventory efficiency.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Experience in material planning, supply planning, production planning, procurement, or broader supply chain operations.
- Proven experience working with suppliers to manage delivery schedules and resolve supply‑related issues.
- Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced environment and manage competing priorities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or similar planning and reporting tools.
Additional Knowledge / Nice‑to‑Have Skills
- Experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience with inventory optimization and supplier performance management.
- Familiarity with lead time reduction, MOQ negotiation support, and supply continuity planning.
- Experience using SAP or similar enterprise systems.
Additional Information
The successful candidate may be employed by 3M prior to closing of the joint venture, with the role expected to transition to the joint venture following completion of the transaction. Role scope and timing are subject to business needs and successful transaction close.
Equal Opportunity Statement
3M is an equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age or disability, or any other characteristic protected under applicable local law.
Material Planner (New Joint Venture) (m/f/x) in Skelmersdale employer: 3M
At our Skelmersdale manufacturing site, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. As a Material Planner, you will benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, competitive compensation, and a commitment to work-life balance, all while contributing to a dynamic team dedicated to excellence in supply chain management. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking joint venture where your contributions directly impact our success and growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Material Planner (New Joint Venture) (m/f/x) in Skelmersdale
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role thoroughly. Understand their supply chain processes and be ready to discuss how your skills can help them optimise inventory and manage supplier relationships.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Be ready to tackle hypothetical scenarios related to material planning during interviews. Show them you can think on your feet and handle supply risks like a champ.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Material Planner (New Joint Venture) (m/f/x) in Skelmersdale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Material Planner role. Highlight your experience in supply chain operations, material planning, and any relevant software skills. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills can help us optimise our material supply. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples where you've tackled supply-related issues or improved processes. We love seeing how you’ve made a difference in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at 3M
✨Know Your Materials
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of material planning and supply chain management. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like lead times, MOQs, and inventory optimisation. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully resolved supply-related issues or improved supplier performance. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your analytical skills.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since the role involves collaboration with various teams and suppliers, demonstrate your strong communication skills during the interview. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be ready to discuss how you manage stakeholder relationships.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ERP/MRP Systems
If you have experience with ERP or MRP systems, make sure to mention it. If not, do a bit of research on common systems used in material planning. Showing that you're tech-savvy and willing to learn can set you apart from other candidates.
