At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage inbound supply and coordinate activities to support production in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join JCB, a leading manufacturer with a commitment to employee care and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 33 days holiday, onsite gym, and discounts at high-street retailers.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in supply chain management while working with international suppliers.
- Qualifications: Experience in supply chain or planning, confident using SAP, and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About the role
As a Senior Planner at JCB World Headquarters (Rocester Operations), you’ll play a pivotal role in managing inbound supply to support production. Operating in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment, you’ll be responsible for coordinating supply chain activities, ensuring materials are delivered in line with the S&OP build programme, and protecting production schedules.
What does this role involve day to day?
- Planning & Scheduling
- Plan and manage inbound manufacturing schedules for Rocester operations
- Convert forecast and S&OP build plans into supplier schedules using SAP
- Ensure alignment between material availability and production requirements
- Supplier Management
- Manage a UK, EU, and international supply base
- Build strong supplier relationships and drive performance improvements
- Monitor delivery performance and address overdue or at‑risk supply
- Expediting & Issue Resolution
- Proactively expedite inbound materials to protect production build programmes
- Respond to shortages, supply delays, and escalations
- Ensure urgent requirements are prioritised to minimise disruption
- Systems & Data Management
- Manage inbound schedules and planning activities through SAP (or equivalent MRP systems)
- Maintain accurate planning data, including lead times and supply parameters
- Provide clear visibility of risks and material availability
- Production Support
- Work closely with internal stakeholders to align supply with production needs
- Adapt quickly to schedule changes and assess material impact
- Support consistent production output across Rocester operations
- Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve planning processes and supply chain efficiency
- Support operational transformation initiatives
- Drive improvements in supplier responsiveness and planning accuracy
This will be suited to you if…
- You have experience in supply chain, planning, or supplier management within a manufacturing environment
- You are confident using SAP or equivalent MRP systems
- You have experience managing UK, EU, and international suppliers
- You thrive in a fast‑paced environment and can manage competing priorities effectively
- You have a proven ability to expedite materials and resolve supply issues to protect production schedules
- You possess strong analytical skills and attention to detail
- You are an effective communicator, able to build relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders
- You are proactive, organised, and able to identify and mitigate risks before they impact operations
- You have experience working cross‑functionally to deliver operational outcomes
What happens next?
Ordinarily, our Resourcing Team reviews and shortlists CVs. If shortlisted, you’ll speak to one of our Recruiters to discuss the role further. Our interview process usually consists of an initial team interview followed by an in‑person interview. We’ll keep in touch throughout the process, but if you have any questions, please get in touch at recruitment@jcb.com.
What’s in it for you?
This is your chance to join a company that values expertise not only in rewards but also in real employee care. At JCB you don’t just get a competitive salary, 33 days’ holiday and access to our company pension—you can also use our onsite gym, in‑house doctor and dentist. We have a ULEV car scheme available for our employees too. Then there’s the JCB Rewards Hub, which gives you discounts with high‑street retailers. Feel like biking to work? There’s our Cycle to Work Scheme.
Company Support & Diversity
We value diversity and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We’re committed to ensuring our recruitment process is fair and inclusive. If you face any accessibility challenges with your online application and require additional support, you have the option of speaking to a member of our Recruitment Team who can support you to complete an application in an alternative format. If you would benefit from this support, please email recruitment@jcb.com, and a member of the team will be in touch.
Recruitment Agencies: JCB does not accept any speculative approaches to present candidates for advertised vacancies.
Senior Planner employer: JCB
At JCB World Headquarters in Rocester, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and unique benefits such as an onsite gym, in-house medical services, and a Cycle to Work Scheme, we foster a supportive and inclusive work culture that encourages continuous improvement and collaboration. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your expertise is valued and your career can flourish in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research JCB's values, products, and recent news. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the interview process. It’s a great way to get insider info and make a good impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to supply chain management and planning. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your achievements.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Planner role. Highlight your experience in supply chain management and any relevant skills with SAP or MRP systems. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role and how you can contribute to our team at JCB. Be sure to mention your ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Whether it's improving supplier performance or expediting materials, we want to know how you've made a difference in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it. Plus, you’ll get all the latest updates directly from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at JCB
✨Know Your SAP Inside Out
Since the role heavily relies on SAP or equivalent MRP systems, make sure you brush up on your knowledge. Familiarise yourself with how to convert forecasts into supplier schedules and manage inbound schedules effectively. Being able to discuss specific functionalities or past experiences using SAP will definitely impress.
✨Showcase Your Supplier Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've built strong relationships with suppliers in the past. Think about times when you’ve had to address overdue supplies or improve performance. This will demonstrate your ability to manage a diverse supply base and handle challenges proactively.
✨Be Ready for Fast-Paced Scenarios
Given the fast-paced nature of the manufacturing environment, be prepared to discuss how you handle competing priorities. Share specific instances where you successfully expedited materials or resolved supply issues under pressure. This will show that you can adapt quickly and keep production on track.
✨Highlight Your Continuous Improvement Mindset
Think about ways you've identified opportunities for improvement in planning processes or supply chain efficiency. Be ready to discuss any operational transformation initiatives you've supported. This will reflect your proactive approach and commitment to enhancing overall performance.
