At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure smooth factory operations by managing raw materials and packaging supply.
- Company: Join Mars, a purpose-driven company with a commitment to your future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, gym membership, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Enjoy perks like free coffee, fruit, and access to an employee shop.
- Why this job: Be part of a global team making a positive impact on the world.
- Qualifications: Experience in supply chain or logistics with strong analytical skills.
£39,300 - £44,300 DOE
Castle Cary, Somerset
37.5 Hrs per week - Mon - Fri
Mars offers competitive compensation and benefits along with some great perks, like fun freebies and best-in-class development. As a Mars Associate, you have our ongoing commitment to your growth and development as you work across our world-famous brands. The world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
The Role
The Planner is responsible for ensuring uninterrupted availability of Raw Materials and Packaging Materials to support factory operations while balancing inventory, warehouse capacity, and working capital objectives. The role manages material replenishment, supplier coordination, and inbound material flow by working closely with Commercial, Regional Planning, Production Planning, Logistics, suppliers, and logistics partners to secure production continuity. The role acts as the key stakeholder for material planning parameters and inventory policies while ensuring compliance with Safety, Quality, and Food Safety standards.
What’s in it for you?
- Career growth opportunities with structured development & Mars University
- Private healthcare + equal parental leave
- Generous pension (up to 9% contribution)
- Life assurance (4x salary)
- Gym membership & wellbeing support
- Annual leave starting at 24 days, rising to 32 with service
- Free perks on site: parking, Lavazza coffee, tea, fruit twice a week, and access to our employee shop
What We’re Looking For
- Experience in Supply Chain Planning, Material Planning, Logistics, Inventory Management, or a related function.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve operational challenges.
- Effective communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build collaborative working relationships.
- High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Team-oriented with a growth mindset, proactive approach, and strong sense of ownership.
- Commitment to Safety, Quality, and Food Safety standards and best practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and manage material replenishment plans to ensure timely material availability and support uninterrupted production.
- Monitor material supply, inventory levels, and planning parameters, proactively identifying risks and implementing mitigation actions.
- Manage inventory performance, including stock accuracy, excess and obsolete inventory, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Coordinate with suppliers, procurement, logistics, and warehouse teams to ensure efficient inbound material flow and issue resolution.
- Track inbound shipments, elevate supply, quality, or logistics risks, and drive corrective actions to minimise operational impact.
- Support compliance, traceability, customs processes, and operational readiness while acting as a key planning contact within the factory.
What You Can Expect From Mars
- Work alongside 130,000+ Associates worldwide guided by our Five Principles
- Be part of a purpose-driven company shaping "the world we want tomorrow"
- Access world-class training & development from day one
- Join a company with an industry-leading salary and benefits package
Factory Packaging and RM Planner in Castle Cary employer: Mars
Mars in Melton Mowbray is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. With competitive salaries, private healthcare, and ample opportunities for career advancement, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive in their roles while working with state-of-the-art technology in the FMCG sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Factory Packaging and RM Planner in Castle Cary
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Mars and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Mars!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Mars keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Factory Packaging and RM Planner in Castle Cary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Mars:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Mars. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mars
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Mars.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Mars that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Mars. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
