Capacity planner

Comprising over 77 Distribution Centres across 8 countries, Alliance Automotive Logistics stands as the pivotal distribution arm of Alliance Automotive Group and has rooted its reputation on the principles of service excellence, its mission to cultivate and nurture enduring partnerships with its extensive clientele and suppliers, and aiming to provide sustained value and reliability in all its operations. Specialising in providing an unparalleled range of logistical solutions and delivering over 250,000 parts to garages and repair centres throughout Europe, Alliance Automotive Logistics guarantee that garages and fast-fit centres can repair and maintain their customers' vehicles as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Location: Rotherham

Role Overview:

The Capacity Planner is responsible for overseeing and coordinating all aspects of operational planning, including resource allocation, workload forecasting, and schedule management. This role plays a pivotal part in ensuring that operational activities align with organisational goals and customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Resource Planning and Scheduling: Develop and manage daily, weekly, and monthly operational plans to ensure resources align with workload requirements. Forecast workforce needs based on demand projections and coordinate staffing plans with the Operations Manager. Optimise shift patterns and schedules to meet service level agreements (SLAs) while maintaining cost efficiency.
• Operational Coordination: Monitor workflows within the Warehouse Management System (WMS) to ensure resources are allocated effectively and tasks are prioritised. Collaborate with department managers to address planning and resourcing challenges, ensuring seamless operations. Conduct regular reviews of capacity and adjust plans as required to accommodate changing operational demands.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyse data related to volume forecasts, productivity, and performance to inform planning decisions. Produce regular reports and dashboards to track resource utilisation, workload distribution, and operational efficiency. Identify trends and provide actionable insights to improve planning accuracy and resource allocation.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the main point of contact for planning-related queries and updates, ensuring clear communication with internal teams and stakeholders. Liaise with Supervisors and First Line Managers to provide updates on plans and resolve issues impacting operations. Support the Head of Operations with strategic planning and long-term capacity forecasting.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to streamline planning processes and improve efficiency. Implement planning tools and systems that enhance resource management and decision-making. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimise cost, performance, and service delivery.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: Proven experience in a planning or resource management role, ideally within a warehouse, logistics, or distribution environment. Strong track record of coordinating operational plans in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Skills: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with planning software or tools (e.g., WMS, workforce management systems). Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and provide actionable insights. Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels. Knowledge of warehouse operations, inventory management, and resource planning best practices.