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- Tasks: Lead a team of planners to optimise distribution strategies and improve efficiency.
- Company: Brakes is the UK's largest foodservice supplier, delivering quality food nationwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive culture, diverse environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a real impact in the food industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in team leadership; planning experience preferred but not essential.
- Other info: We value diversity and inclusivity, ensuring everyone feels welcome and supported.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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- Department: Supply Chain and Operations (Non Driver or Operative Roles)
Job Description
Shift Pattern: Monday – Friday 09:00 – 18:30
Location: Portbury
We are a leading distribution company serving customers across the UK, operating from multiple strategic locations. Our commitment to excellence in supply chain management and customer service has established us as a trusted partner for businesses nationwide. We\’re seeking an experienced Planning Team Leader to oversee our distribution planning operations and lead a team of skilled planners.
You will be responsible for leading, mentoring, and developing a team of 4 distribution planners. Your duties include conducting regular performance reviews, managing workload allocation, developing and implementing distribution planning strategies, analyzing demand patterns, and forecasting requirements across multiple distribution centres. You will optimise route planning and load consolidation to maximise efficiency, collaborate with warehouse operations, transport, and customer service teams, and monitor KPIs such as on-time delivery, cost per delivery, and resource utilisation. Additionally, you\’ll implement process improvements, manage capacity planning across the network, utilise planning software and WMS systems, and generate reports and analytics for senior management.
We require experience in leading a team. Planning experience is preferred but not essential. Technical skills include proficiency in planning software (SAP, Roadnet, Verizon WMS, or similar), advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, data analysis), and experience with route optimisation tools. You must have a proven track record of managing and developing teams, understanding UK distribution networks and transport regulations, and possess excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Additional Information
At Brakes, everyone is welcome. We focus on your potential and aim to define our culture together. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone has a voice, is appreciated, and has equal opportunities. We care for one another and connect the world through food and trusted partnerships. Our goal is for everyone to belong and thrive at Brakes. We will support you throughout the application process and are happy to make any necessary adjustments.
About Brakes
Built on a passion for food and feeding the nation, we are the UK’s largest foodservice supplier. Every day, Brakes delivers high-quality fresh and frozen food from our distribution centres to pubs, restaurants, schools, caterers, care homes, and hospitals. Our 8,000-strong workforce is dedicated and proud of this vital service. And we’re growing!
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Planning Team Leader employer: Fresh Direct
Contact Detail:
Fresh Direct Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Team Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific planning software mentioned in the job description, such as SAP or Verizon WMS. Having hands-on experience or even completing online tutorials can give you a significant edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of UK distribution networks and transport regulations. Understanding these aspects will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led and developed teams in the past. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will showcase your leadership skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the supply chain and operations field. Engaging with industry groups on platforms like LinkedIn can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Team Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Planning Team Leader position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Since the role requires leading a team, emphasise any previous leadership or mentoring experience in your CV and cover letter. Provide specific examples of how you have successfully managed teams and improved performance.
Showcase Technical Skills: Mention your proficiency in planning software and advanced Excel skills. If you have experience with route optimisation tools, be sure to include that as well. Use concrete examples to demonstrate how you've applied these skills in past roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that explains why you are interested in the Planning Team Leader position at Brakes. Discuss your passion for supply chain management and how your values align with their commitment to diversity and inclusion.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fresh Direct
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Planning Team Leader, you'll be expected to lead and mentor a team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you've developed teams, and any specific strategies you've used to motivate and manage workloads.
✨Demonstrate Technical Proficiency
Familiarity with planning software and advanced Excel skills are crucial for this role. Brush up on your knowledge of tools like SAP or Roadnet, and be ready to provide examples of how you've used these in past roles to optimise planning and improve efficiency.
✨Understand the Industry Landscape
Make sure you have a solid understanding of UK distribution networks and transport regulations. Research current trends in supply chain management and be prepared to discuss how they might impact the role and the company.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving and analytical skills. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, particularly when discussing past challenges you've faced in planning or team management.
