At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead raw materials planning to ensure timely availability for production and customer service.
- Company: Join a trusted family business known for high-quality products and a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health support, employee discounts, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Flexible processes and a commitment to diverse perspectives create a thriving workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while driving continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Experience in materials planning and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About The Role As Raw Materials Manager, you will lead the planning and supply of raw materials across a complex manufacturing operation, ensuring material availability supports customer service, production performance, and inventory objectives.
Working closely with Operations, Procurement, Demand Planning, Commercial, and Logistics teams, you will manage supply risks, optimise stock levels, and drive continuous improvement across the end-to-end supply chain.
This role requires a strong people leader who can influence stakeholders across a matrix organisation, navigate ambiguity, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment while balancing service, cost, and inventory performance.
Key
Responsibilities: Lead the Raw Materials Planning team to ensure the timely availability of materials required to support production and customer service targets.
Develop and execute material planning strategies that optimise inventory levels, minimise waste, and improve working capital performance.
Collaborate with Procurement, Operations, Demand Planning, Commercial, and Logistics teams to align supply plans with business requirements.
Manage material shortages, supply disruptions, and changing priorities, implementing effective contingency plans to minimise operational risk.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across planning processes, systems, reporting, and team capability to enhance overall supply chain performance.
About You We believe success comes from collaboration and diverse perspectives.
At Samworth Brothers, we value team players who are driven to achieve great results together.
You'll bring the following skills and experience: Proven experience in a Materials Planning, Supply Planning, Inventory Management, or Raw Materials leadership role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, ideally FMCG or food manufacturing.
Strong leadership capability with experience developing and managing high-performing teams through coaching, engagement, and accountability.
Demonstrated ability to influence and build credibility across a matrix organisation, effectively managing multiple stakeholders and competing priorities.
Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data, identify risks, and translate insights into effective actions.
Degree-level qualification in Supply Chain, Business, Operations Management, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
Professional supply chain qualifications (APICS, CIPS, CPIM, or similar) would be advantageous.
What We Offer We're building a workplace where different ways of thinking are not just welcomed but supported, with clear communication, flexible processes, and a commitment to continuous improvement so everyone can thrive.
Company pension scheme Access to health and well-being support, such as healthcare, optical and dental discounts Employee discount scheme Experience annual pay reviews Profit related pay Opportunity for extended leave Free on-site parking Unlock your potential through training and growth opportunities About Us Samworth Brothers is a fourth-generation family business, trusted by many of the UK's best-known retailers to produce high-quality own-label products.
Alongside these, we're proud to craft and deliver our own iconic brands, including Ginsters, Soreen, Higgidy, Dickinson
Materials Planning Manager employer: Samworth Brothers Limited
At Samworth Brothers, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture where every team member is valued. Our night shift Skilled Production Operatives enjoy competitive benefits, opportunities for personal growth, and the chance to be part of a dedicated team that celebrates diversity while working together to achieve common goals. Join us in a supportive environment that not only prioritises productivity but also fosters camaraderie and enjoyment in the workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials Planning Manager
✨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 Samworth Brothers Limited, 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Materials Planning Manager
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 Samworth Brothers Limited 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 Samworth Brothers Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Samworth Brothers Limited, 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 Samworth Brothers Limited 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.
