At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production planning and scheduling in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Granite State Manufacturing, a leader in innovative manufacturing solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy health benefits, flexible work options, and tuition reimbursement.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values teamwork and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising production and driving operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and 7+ years in production planning required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Master Scheduler & Digital Planning Manager is responsible for leading production planning, master scheduling, Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP), operational analytics, and digital manufacturing initiatives within a high-mix, low-to-medium volume manufacturing environment. This position serves as the organization's primary authority on production flow, manufacturing capacity, schedule risk, operational forecasting, and performance measurement. Using M1 ERP, Foundry, Artificial Intelligence (AI), advanced analytics, and integrated manufacturing systems, this role drives improved schedule adherence, throughput, on-time delivery, and data-driven decision-making across the organization.
This role serves as the business owner for operational planning systems, performance reporting, capacity modeling, schedule adherence methodology, and operational analytics. Success will be measured through improvements in delivery performance, planning accuracy, throughput, labor utilization, schedule stability, and overall manufacturing effectiveness.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:- Develop and maintain the master production schedule (MPS) across multiple product lines in a high-mix manufacturing environment.
- Optimize production by balancing demand, capacity, inventory, and lead times while coordinating labor, equipment, facilities, suppliers, and materials across all value streams.
- Ensure alignment between customer demand, manufacturing capacity, workforce needs, material availability, and overall business priorities.
- Monitor schedule adherence and proactively adjust and develop recovery plans to address constraints, disruptions, delivery risks and priorities.
- Leverage AI/ML-based planning and scheduling tools to improve forecast accuracy, capacity planning, and sequencing.
- Deploy predictive analytics for demand variability, bottleneck detection, and throughput optimization.
- Continuously evaluate and enhance algorithm performance and applicability within the manufacturing environment.
- Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for ERP, APS (Advanced Planning & Scheduling), and MES systems related to scheduling.
- Ensure data integrity for key planning inputs such as BOMs, routings, lead times, and capacity models.
- Develop dashboards and reporting tools to provide real‑time visibility into schedule performance, KPIs, and risks.
- Lead system enhancements, integrations, and digital transformation initiatives tied to production planning.
- Drive Schedule adherence and capacity utilization.
- Communicate schedule changes, risks, and recovery plans clearly to stakeholders.
- Manage scheduling complexity associated with frequent changeovers, diverse product configurations, and variable processing times.
- Optimize sequencing to minimize setup time while maintaining customer delivery commitments.
- Implement strategies for flexible manufacturing and rapid response to changing customer demands.
- Develop short, medium, and long‑range production plans aligned with customer commitments and business objectives.
- Establish and maintain finite‑capacity planning methodologies.
- Lead weekly and monthly planning reviews.
- Evaluate the operational impact of changing customer priorities, engineering changes, and new business opportunities.
- Ensure planning processes support both operational execution and strategic business objectives.
- Own and facilitate the monthly Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process.
- Develop demand, capacity, and supply planning scenarios.
- Identify and communicate future constraints, risks, and resource requirements.
- Present operational forecasts and recommendations to executive leadership.
- Drive organizational alignment regarding production priorities and resource allocation.
- Monitor and report S&OP plan attainment.
- Own the development, governance, and reporting of operational performance metrics.
- Establish standard KPI definitions, calculations, reporting methodologies, and accountability structures.
- Lead operational performance reviews with leadership teams.
- Analyze trends and provide recommendations based on operational data.
- Ensure performance reporting drives action and continuous improvement.
- Serve as the business owner for Foundry‑related operational planning and analytics initiatives.
- Develop and maintain operational and executive dashboards, workflows, visual management systems and decision‑support tools.
- Integrate ERP, labor, quality, engineering, and manufacturing data into a unified operational environment.
- Develop automated reporting and exception‑management systems.
- Develop predictive analytics related to capacity utilization, delivery risk, schedule adherence, labor demand, and throughput performance.
- Evaluate and recommend emerging technologies that improve operational effectiveness.
- Lead, coach, and develop the Planning team.
- Establish organizational goals, priorities, and performance expectations.
- Develop team competencies in planning, scheduling, analytics, Foundry utilization, and AI‑enabled decision support.
- Drive cross‑functional alignment between Operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Program Management.
- Support succession planning and talent development initiatives.
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and data‑driven decision making.
- Improve planning accuracy, schedule stability, and operational predictability.
- Identify and eliminate planning‑related inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
- Support Lean Manufacturing, Theory of Constraints, Six Sigma, and Total Quality Management initiatives.
- Lead projects focused on throughput improvement, delivery performance, and operational excellence.
- Standardize planning and reporting methodologies across the organization.
- Work to reduce and eliminate barriers and obstacles to improve overall cost and scheduling performance.
Your leadership is expected to make it easier for employees to make quality products and make it easier for customers to do business with GSM.
Demonstrates responsibility and accountability for creating a professional, safe, and clean environment evidenced by: being at work on time to perform assigned duties, following the policies of Granite State Manufacturing, always wearing safety glasses in designated areas, maintaining a neat and orderly work area, and following safety practices to prevent errors.
Demonstrates commitment to teamwork by establishing effective relationships and networks with both managers/directors and workers, and collaborating with them to accomplish shared purposes and goals.
Abides by GSM Code of Ethics and Business Conduct standards and strictly observes all U.S. and foreign laws and regulations.
Completes other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Data Science, or related field.
- 7+ years of experience in production planning/scheduling in a manufacturing environment (high‑mix preferred).
- 3+ years leading planning or scheduling teams.
- Strong analytical skills with experience using data and modeling to drive decisions.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing, capacity planning, and constraint‑based scheduling.
- Ability to work in a fast‑paced manufacturing setting with high variability and evolving priorities.
- Experience with AI tools or platforms applied to supply chain or manufacturing optimization.
- Familiarity with Python, SQL, or data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau).
- APICS/ASCM certification (CPIM, CSCP) or equivalent.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and business intelligence skills.
- Experience with Foundry platforms and digital manufacturing ecosystems.
- Experience implementing AI, machine learning, predictive analytics, or advanced planning systems.
- Experience with ERP systems such as M1, SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or similar platforms.
- Experience within defense, aerospace, naval, or highly regulated manufacturing environments.
- Experience with MES integration and Industry 4.0 technologies.
- Systems thinking and problem‑solving.
- Data‑driven decision‑making.
- Adaptability in complex, high‑mix environments.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management.
- Continuous improvement mindset.
- Inventory Management.
Granite State Manufacturing (GSM) is an equal opportunity employer. GSM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability or veteran status in its programs, activities or employment.
Granite State Manufacturing offers a comprehensive benefits package to all GSM employees.
- Health & Wellness Programs
- Health Insurances (Medical, Dental, & Vision)
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Basic & Optional Life Insurance
- Short & Long Term Disability
- Employee Assistance Program
- Voluntary Worksite Benefits
- 401k Retirement Plan
- Paid Leave
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Workers Compensation
- …and much more.
Master Scheduler & Digital Planning Manager in Manchester employer: Granite State Manufacturing
Granite State Manufacturing is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the manufacturing sector. With a comprehensive benefits package, including health and wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, and a commitment to employee development, GSM provides ample opportunities for growth and advancement in a dynamic, high-mix manufacturing environment. Located in a region known for its innovation and quality of life, employees enjoy a supportive atmosphere that encourages collaboration and data-driven decision-making.
Contact Details:
Granite State Manufacturing Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Master Scheduler & Digital Planning Manager in Manchester
✨Join Supply Chain Meetups
Get yourself out there by attending supply chain meetups and industry events. It's a great way to meet fellow professionals, learn about trends, and maybe even hear about job openings before they’re posted online.
✨Show Off Your Skills on LinkedIn
Don’t just sit back and wait for opportunities! Post insights or articles on LinkedIn about supply chain challenges or solutions you’re passionate about. This not only showcases your expertise but can catch the eye of recruiters looking for someone like you.
✨Engage with Supply Chain Communities
Dive into online communities related to supply chain operations like forums or groups on Reddit and LinkedIn. Engaging in discussions can help you network, get advice, and you might even stumble upon some hidden job opportunities.
✨Apply through Our Website
When you spot a position at Granite State Manufacturing, make sure to apply through our website directly. It's often the quickest way to get your application in front of the right people and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role of Master Scheduler & Digital Planning Manager.
We think you need these skills to ace Master Scheduler & Digital Planning Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in supply chain operations. Whether it’s managing logistics or coordinating with suppliers, we want to see examples of how you've navigated the complexities of the supply chain. Concrete achievements, like reducing costs or improving delivery times, will definitely catch our eye!
Quantify Your Impact:When listing your previous roles on your CV, go for numbers! Mention percentages or actual figures where possible—like how much you've improved efficiency or reduced waste. It's all about showing us the tangible impact you've made in your past positions in supply chain operations.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:In your cover letter, don’t just regurgitate your CV. Instead, connect your experiences specifically to the role at Granite State Manufacturing. Share why you're passionate about supply chain operations and how this full-time role aligns with your career goals—I mean, who wouldn’t want to hear that!
Research and Reflect:Before you apply, take some time to research Granite State Manufacturing and its supply chain operations. Reflect on how your skills and experiences can fit into their operations. Being able to discuss their challenges and how you can contribute to solving them in your application will really make you stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Granite State Manufacturing
✨Know Your Basics in Supply Chain Management
Make sure you've got a solid grasp of key supply chain concepts like demand forecasting, inventory management, and logistics. We could be quizzed on these during technical rounds, so brush up on any software tools commonly used in the industry like SAP or Oracle. This knowledge will help us show we can hit the ground running!
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss real-world scenarios where you've used data analysis to solve supply chain challenges. If you've got experience with tools like Excel or Tableau, get ready to talk about how you've used these to optimise processes or improve efficiencies. Employers love seeing that we can turn data into actionable insights!
✨Highlight Your Teamwork and Project Management Skills
In a full-time role, collaboration is key. Think of examples where you've worked on cross-functional teams or managed projects. Sharing how you navigated challenges while working with diverse groups will show that we can thrive in a dynamic environment like at Granite State Manufacturing.
✨Research Specific Challenges Faced by Granite State Manufacturing
Look into any unique supply chain challenges Granite State Manufacturing might be facing, whether it's sustainability, supplier relationships, or global disruptions. Being prepared to discuss these topics shows that we're not only informed but also genuinely interested in how we can contribute to their success. That’s a big plus in any interview!
