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- Tasks: Lead MP&L operations, optimise costs, and ensure service excellence.
- Company: Join a top-rated company known for innovation and teamwork in the automotive industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role with opportunities for career growth and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values inclusion, respect, and continuous improvement in a modern facility.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in logistics management, strong supply chain knowledge, and leadership skills required.
- Other info: Minimal travel required; work in a high-performing plant supporting major automotive brands.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We work hard for the people who work for us. We champion our teams. We foster collaboration, inclusion, respect and excellence. Our teams have invented groundbreaking technologies, flawlessly manufactured millions of products and earned a long list of awards. Year after year, we are one of the World's Most Admired Companies. Our teams are the secret to our success. They are empowered, inventive and inclusive. Passionate about their craft. Driven to succeed. Because we all understand that we must work together to win. Are you ready for a better career? A better future?
Location: Sunderland, UK (Foam/JIT Division & Customer Seating)
Type: Permanent
Reports to: Plant Manager
We are seeking an experienced Materials, Planning & Logistics (MP&L) Manager to lead all MP&L activities on-site, driving efficiency, service excellence, and cost optimization.
About the Sunderland Plant: The Sunderland plant operates across two production lines — seating and foam — and employs approximately 600 people. Lear Corporation’s Sunderland facility is a modern, high-performing site supporting major automotive customers like Nissan and Jaguar Land Rover, with strong investment in production and R&D capabilities.
Responsibilities:
- Lead all MP&L operations across the site.
- Define and implement strategies to maximize service levels and minimize costs.
- Manage master scheduling, materials planning, warehousing, and transport operations.
- Oversee external logistics partners and ensure service excellence.
- Ensure inventory accuracy and optimize stock levels.
- Drive continuous improvement and cost-saving initiatives.
- Directly manage and support two key team members: the Warehouse Manager and the Senior Master Scheduler.
- Prepare and manage MP&L budgets and forecasts.
- Collaborate with internal departments and external partners.
- Ensure compliance with Health & Safety, Environmental, and Quality standards.
- Minimal travel required (approximately 10%, within the UK).
Requirements:
- 10+ years of management experience in automotive or Tier 1 supplier logistics.
- Strong knowledge of supply chain, logistics, and planning processes.
- Experience with ERP/MRP/WMS systems (AS400/BPCS preferred).
- Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or related field (preferred).
- Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Proactive and hands-on approach with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Customer-focused mindset.
MP&L Manager employer: Lear
Contact Detail:
Lear Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land MP&L Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in materials planning and logistics, especially within the automotive sector. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a rapidly evolving field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the automotive logistics industry, particularly those who have experience with Tier 1 suppliers. Engaging with these individuals can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that could enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven efficiency and cost optimisation in previous roles. Being able to articulate your past successes will showcase your capability to meet the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and culture, as well as the Sunderland plant's operations. Tailoring your conversation to align with our commitment to collaboration and excellence will help you stand out as a candidate who fits well within our team.
We think you need these skills to ace MP&L Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the MP&L Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in materials, planning, and logistics.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your 10+ years of management experience in automotive or Tier 1 supplier logistics. Provide specific examples of how you've driven efficiency and cost optimisation in previous roles.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since the role involves managing key team members, be sure to illustrate your leadership style and any successful team management experiences. Mention any initiatives you've led that resulted in continuous improvement.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a compelling cover letter that connects your skills and experiences directly to the job description. Discuss your proactive approach and customer-focused mindset, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to the Sunderland plant's success.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lear
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an MP&L Manager, you'll be leading teams and driving efficiency. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you've motivated teams, and any successful projects you've led. Use specific examples to illustrate your impact.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Supply Chain Processes
Make sure you understand the key components of supply chain management, logistics, and planning processes. Be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in past roles, particularly in the automotive sector or with Tier 1 suppliers.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Prepare for scenarios related to inventory management, cost optimisation, and collaboration with external partners. Think through your responses and how you would handle these situations.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
The company values a proactive approach to continuous improvement. Be ready to share examples of initiatives you've implemented that have led to efficiency gains or cost savings. Highlight your commitment to fostering a culture of excellence within your team.
