At a Glance
- Tasks: As a Planner, you'll manage schedules, handle calls, and ensure smooth operations for local teams.
- Company: Mears Group PLC is the UK's largest provider of repairs and maintenance services.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, discounts, and paid volunteering opportunities.
- Other info: Mears values diversity and offers a Disability Confident environment.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team making a real impact in the community with a focus on social value.
- Qualifications: Previous call centre experience and good communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 24990 - 29988 £ per year.
Planner
Location: Norwich
Full time / Permanent
Salary: £30,458.75
Hours: 42.5 hours Monday - Friday
About the Role
We are looking for an organised and proactive Planner to join our local repairs team. You will play an important role in ensuring repairs are scheduled efficiently, work is allocated to operatives, and jobs are completed promptly and to a high standard. Acting as a key point of contact between residents, operatives, subcontractors and colleagues, you will help deliver a customer‑focused and responsive repairs service.
Duties
- Schedule and plan repair works to ensure efficient use of operatives and resources
- Use the MCM system to manage appointments, update job statuses and monitor progress
- Track overdue tasks and support the team in meeting performance targets and KPIs
- Coordinate operatives and subcontractors to ensure jobs are completed on time and fully equipped
- Communicate effectively with residents to provide updates and manage expectations
- Support the repairs team by identifying and escalating operational issues where required
- Monitor workloads and assist with planning cover for absences and holidays
- Allocate work to subcontractors and raise material orders in line with procurement procedures
- Ensure accurate use of IT systems, including PDAs and subcontractor portals
- Maintain clear and accurate records across all systems
- Deliver a professional, courteous and customer‑focused service at all times
- Adhere to health and safety requirements and company policies
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure service delivery standards are met
- Support company procedures, maintain company assets and provide cover for other planners when required
- Attend meetings and training sessions as required
Role Criteria
- Experience working in a planning, scheduling or coordination role within repairs and maintenance or a similar environment
- GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Maths
- Experience working in a fast‑paced, reactive and customer‑focused environment
- Good IT skills with the ability to use job management, scheduling and appointment systems
- Strong time management and organisational skills, with good attention to detail
- Clear and confident communication skills, both written and verbal
- A customer‑focused approach with the ability to manage queries and challenging situations professionally
- An understanding of repairs and maintenance processes
- Experience planning and scheduling multi‑trade repairs using an ICT appointment or job management system
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Leading pension scheme
- Annual Mears Fun Day
- Volunteering leave – paid volunteering in the community, supporting our social value commitment
- Staff perks with Mears Rewards – discounts on groceries, holidays, eye tests, share save scheme and more
- Family friendly policies
All our roles require candidates to have the entitlement to work within the UK, Mears does not currently offer visa sponsorship.
Candidates should be aware that all our roles are subject to relevant Background, Identity & Security checks before commencement of employment.
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. We are a Disability Confident employer, valuing individuality and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Planner employer: Mears Group PLC
Mears Group PLC is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises community engagement and employee well-being. With benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, volunteering opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees can thrive in their roles while contributing to meaningful social housing projects in Thurrock. The company also values professional growth, providing a stable environment for planners to develop their skills and advance their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the social housing sector, especially in relation to Redbridge council. Understanding local issues and community needs can help you stand out during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your communication skills, as you'll be liaising with operatives and sub-contractors regularly. Practising clear and concise communication can make a big difference in your interactions.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain some experience with planning software or tools that are commonly used in the industry. Being able to demonstrate familiarity with these systems can give you an edge over other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Mears Group PLC. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Planner at Mears Group PLC. Familiarise yourself with the job description and think about how your skills and experiences align with the requirements.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience, especially in call centre work and planning. Use specific examples that demonstrate your communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that not only expresses your interest in the Planner role but also showcases your understanding of Mears Group's values and commitment to the community. Mention any relevant experience that makes you a strong candidate.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the Planner position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mears Group PLC
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Planner, you'll need to communicate effectively with clients, operatives, and subcontractors. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to articulate ideas clearly and listen actively. Share examples of how you've successfully managed communication in previous roles.
✨Highlight Your Planning Experience
Make sure to discuss any relevant experience you have in planning works or managing schedules. Be prepared to explain how you prioritise tasks and ensure that operatives have a full diary of jobs each day. Specific examples will help illustrate your capabilities.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Mears Group
Research Mears Group and understand their values, mission, and the services they provide. Being knowledgeable about the company will show your genuine interest in the role and help you align your answers with their goals during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle unexpected situations. Think of scenarios where you had to manage conflicts, adapt plans, or deal with last-minute changes, and be ready to discuss how you approached these challenges.
