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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. 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 its culture. Understand their products and challenges, especially in material planning. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on articulating your experience in material planning and how it aligns with the job description. Confidence is key, so make sure you’re ready to shine!
✨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 Senior Material Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Material Planner role. Highlight your experience in material planning, operations, and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align 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 the perfect fit for our team in Thirsk. Share specific examples of how you've optimised inventory or improved supplier relationships in the past.
Show Off Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires an analytical mindset, don’t forget to mention your experience with data-driven decision-making. We love seeing how you’ve used data to improve planning accuracy or mitigate supply risks.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Candid hire
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Material Planner, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key metrics related to inventory management and supply chain performance. Be ready to discuss how you've used data in past roles to optimise processes or improve planning accuracy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves guiding a small team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've led projects or mentored others. Highlight your ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with colleagues across departments.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ERP/MRP Systems
Since proficiency with systems like SAP or Sage is crucial, make sure you can talk about your experience with these tools. If possible, bring specific examples of how you've used these systems to manage material flow or improve purchasing parameters.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of scenarios where you've had to mitigate supply risks or optimise logistics. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
