At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to optimise production planning and scheduling in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Successful manufacturing business based in Plymouth with a dynamic culture.
- Benefits: Annual bonus, private healthcare, pension contributions, and 25 days leave.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving continuous improvement and aligning production with customer demand.
- Qualifications: Experience in production planning, strong ERP knowledge, and advanced Excel skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
A great opportunity has opened for a Planning Manager to join a successful manufacturing business based in Plymouth. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced production environment and enjoys leading a team to deliver accurate demand planning, efficient scheduling and strong operational performance. You'll play a key role in ensuring production plans align with customer demand, capacity and material availability, while driving continuous improvement across planning processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain production plans to achieve strong OTIF performance.
- Oversee production scheduling, capacity planning and workflow optimisation.
- Align production plans with demand forecasts through close collaboration with Manufacturing and Supply Chain.
- Use ERP systems to improve planning accuracy and drive continuous improvement.
- Monitor inventory levels and adjust schedules to balance demand and working‑capital targets.
- Lead and develop the Planning, Customer Service, Logistics and Routing teams.
- Analyse data to improve forecasting accuracy and support operational decision‑making.
- Manage supplier and customer relationships to ensure service and performance standards.
Key Skills
- Strong knowledge of factory planning, ERP systems and demand‑forecasting tools.
- Proven experience in production planning or supply chain roles within manufacturing.
- Advanced Excel skills; SAP experience desirable.
- Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, supply chain and inventory control.
- Skilled in lean methodologies and structured problem‑solving.
- Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder‑management abilities.
- Highly organised, detail‑focused and comfortable working under pressure.
- Commercially aware, proactive and able to drive process and system improvements.
Planning Manager - Plymouth employer: Hunter Selection
Join a thriving manufacturing business in Plymouth that values its employees and fosters a dynamic work culture. With competitive benefits including private healthcare, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth, this role as a Planning Manager offers a chance to lead a dedicated team while driving operational excellence. Enjoy the perks of free on-site parking and electric vehicle charging, all within a supportive environment that prioritises employee well-being and development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Manager - Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing and supply chain sectors. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their production processes and challenges they might face. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills with real examples! When discussing your experience, use specific instances where you've improved planning accuracy or led a team to success. This makes your achievements tangible and memorable.
✨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 take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Manager - Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Planning Manager role. Highlight your experience in production planning and any relevant skills, like your knowledge of ERP systems and demand forecasting tools. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this fast-paced environment. Share specific examples of how you've led teams or improved processes in previous roles. We love a good story!
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your advanced Excel skills and any experience with SAP. If you’ve used lean methodologies or have a knack for problem-solving, let us know! We’re looking for someone who can drive continuous improvement.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s quick and easy, and we’ll be able to review your application faster. Plus, you’ll get to see all the perks we offer, like private healthcare and annual bonuses!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hunter Selection
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Planning Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your strong knowledge of factory planning and ERP systems. Brush up on key metrics like OTIF performance and inventory levels, and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive improvements in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves leading teams, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully managed and developed teams in the past. Highlight your communication and stakeholder management abilities, and think about specific challenges you've overcome as a leader.
✨Understand the Business
Familiarise yourself with the manufacturing business's operations and how they align with customer demand. Research their products and market position, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their success through effective planning and scheduling.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle pressure and solve problems. Think of examples where you've applied lean methodologies or improved processes. Be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes of your actions.
