Lead Production Planner
Full-Time, Permanent
Westhill, Aberdeen
Please note that this role requires security checks.
The Role
As Lead Production Planner, you will play a pivotal role in optimising production performance, leading the planning team to balance customer demand, resource capacity and operational priorities while delivering exceptional service and on-time results.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead the UK Production Planning team, driving planning excellence, optimising scheduling performance and ensuring alignment across sites.
- Act as the key escalation point for planning-related challenges, resolving issues quickly to minimise disruption and maintain operational continuity.
- Take ownership of planning KPIs, continuously improving delivery performance, planning effectiveness and operational maturity.
- Develop and maintain robust production schedules, using MRP outputs to balance demand, capacity and business priorities.
- Collaborate closely with Production, Procurement, Engineering and other key stakeholders to ensure schedule adherence, manage risks and support efficient delivery.
- Monitor production performance, identify bottlenecks and implement corrective actions to improve workflow, efficiency and on-time delivery.
- Analyse planning and operational data to improve forecast accuracy, optimise resource utilisation and strengthen capacity planning capabilities.
- Create, release and manage complex works orders, ensuring high levels of accuracy, traceability and planning integrity.
- Maintain and continuously improve MRP master data, ensuring planning systems remain reliable, accurate and fit for purpose.
- Produce meaningful capacity analysis and KPI reporting, providing insights that support informed operational and strategic decision‑making.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance planning processes, standardise ways of working and drive operational performance.
- Build strong relationships with internal and external customers, providing timely updates and professional support.
- Coach, mentor and develop planners and operational colleagues, fostering capability, consistency and a culture of continuous improvement.
What we’re looking for:
- Extensive experience in production planning within a complex manufacturing environment, with a proven track record of delivering operational and customer‑focused results.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex data, identify trends and translate insights into actionable plans.
- Expert knowledge of ERP/MRP systems, including production planning, master data management and process optimisation.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or equivalent analytical tools, with experience in forecasting, capacity planning and scenario modelling.
- Proven leadership experience, with the ability to develop high‑performing teams, drive accountability and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to influence and collaborate at all levels of the organisation.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, production constraints, capacity planning and end‑to‑end supply chain processes.
- Ability to balance strategic planning objectives with day‑to‑day operational priorities in a fast‑paced and changing environment.
- A proactive and solutions‑focused approach, with the ability to identify risks, resolve complex challenges and drive positive outcomes.
- Passion for continuous improvement, with experience implementing initiatives that enhance planning performance, efficiency and delivery reliability.
- Strong organisational skills, capable of managing multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Why join us?
- Early finish on Fridays
- Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience (Private Medical Insurance, Life Assurance, Cycle to work scheme, Company Pension, etc.)
- Clear pathways for career development and organisational visibility
- Inclusive and supportive culture that values individual contributions
- Meaningful work with impact across safety, innovation, and global operations
About Us:
James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise, and collaboration.
Visit our website at: Home | James Fisher and Sons plc For more information about our values and behaviours, follow the link: About us | James Fisher and Sons plc
James Fisher Defence (JFD), part of the James Fisher Group, is a global leader in underwater capability, delivering cutting‑edge diving, submarine rescue, and hyperbaric solutions to both commercial and defence markets. Operating worldwide, JFD is the foremost provider of submarine rescue services and a trusted name in submarine escape training. We’re also at the forefront of hyperbaric rescue innovation and a leading supplier of advanced diving equipment and saturation systems across the industry. Explore more about JFD
At James Fisher and Sons, we are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success is driven by the talent and diversity of our workforce.
To support an accessible and inclusive recruitment experience in the UK, we partner with Vercida. You can learn more about our approach by visiting our company page: James Fisher and Sons diversity, inclusion, culture - VERCIDA
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Lead Production Planner employer: JamesFisher
James Fisher is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where maritime professionals can thrive. With a strong focus on governance and risk management, employees benefit from a culture of continuous improvement and extensive opportunities for professional growth. The company's commitment to safety and innovation ensures that team members are empowered to make meaningful contributions while engaging with global stakeholders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Production Planner
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like JamesFisher, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to JamesFisher specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at JamesFisher
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with JamesFisher, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like JamesFisher value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
