At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead material planning, optimise inventory, and manage supplier relationships in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Established manufacturing business in Thirsk with a close-knit supply chain team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, and a hands-on senior role.
- Other info: Enjoy stability and career growth in a collaborative team.
- Why this job: Take ownership in a growing company and make a real impact on operations.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in material planning, strong ERP/MRP skills, and leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 42000 £ per year.
A well-established manufacturing business in Thirsk is looking for a Senior Material Planner to join its close-knit supply chain team. Reporting to the Operations Director, you will play a key role in leading material planning activity across the site. This is a senior-level position within a small team of two, offering autonomy and ownership of material flow, supplier coordination, and inventory optimisation. This role is ideal for an experienced planner ready to take a lead position in a dynamic, hands-on environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and reschedule open purchase orders in line with production requirements
- Optimise purchasing parameters (transport, MOQs, firm windows)
- Support new product development by sourcing materials and coordinating with R&D and project teams
- Oversee supplier relationships, including onboarding, performance tracking, and ongoing collaboration
- Take ownership of inventory accuracy and stock value performance
- Use purchasing and sales history to improve planning accuracy
- Support site-wide inventory strategies for new, existing, and phased-out products
- Work closely with production planners to align materials with forecasts
- Identify and mitigate supply risks proactively
- Optimise inbound logistics and transport utilisation
- Drive productivity improvements through tighter MRP controls
- Establish and maintain Kanban levels at production cells
- Collaborate with warehouse supervisors on inventory holding levels
- Attend daily logistics meetings to ensure alignment of priorities
What We're Looking For
- Experience: 3-5 years in material planning / production / operations
- Leadership: Comfortable working independently and guiding a small team or assistant planner
- Systems: Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Sage) and strong Excel skills
- Supply Chain Knowledge: Strong grasp of BOMs, lead times, inventory strategies, and lean methodologies
- Analytical Mindset: Confident using data to make informed decisions
- Communication: Able to liaise across departments and negotiate with suppliers effectively
Package Details
- Salary between £38,000 – £42,000, depending on experience
- 28 days holiday including bank holidays
- Monday–Friday daytime hours
- A hands-on senior role within a small, collaborative team
- Stability and ownership in a growing manufacturing business
Senior Material Planner employer: Candid hire
Join a well-established manufacturing business in Thirsk, where you will thrive in a supportive and collaborative work culture that values autonomy and innovation. With competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional growth, this role as a Senior Material Planner offers you the chance to make a significant impact within a close-knit team while enjoying the stability of a growing company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Material Planner
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Candid hire, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Material Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Candid hire specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Candid hire
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Candid hire, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Candid hire value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
