Despatch Planning Manager

Join Our Team at Smurfit Westrock! Are you searching for a workplace that values you and your growth? At Smurfit Westrock, we’re committed to sustainability, employee well-being, and personal development. About Us We are a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging. Our focus is on the health and safety of our employees, the well-being of our communities, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. We support our team members to reach their full potential in an inclusive environment that values diversity. The Role The Despatch Planning Manager is responsible for leading and developing the Despatch Planning team to deliver high-performance outcomes aligned with our business goals. It requires proactive management of the despatch planning process, optimizing transport capacity and resource allocation, and supporting best-in-class OTIF performance at the lowest overall cost. The role requires regular review of short- and medium-term logistics forecasts and demand data to support forward planning and workload balancing across multiple sites. Main Duties & Responsibilities         Lead, manage, and develop the Despatch Planning team, ensuring delivery of high-performance outcomes in alignment with business goals. Own the despatch planning process, optimising resources and transport capacity while maintaining service excellence. Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders including Production, Warehousing, Transport and Customer Service teams to align outbound planning with business demand. React to and manage changing priorities effectively to ensure continuity and efficiency in the despatch operation. Utilise data and planning tools to drive decision-making, identify improvements, and support supply chain initiatives. Drive continuous improvement and change initiatives to optimise performance and cost. Maintain a high standard of communication across the business, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE Proven experience in despatch/logistics/supply chain planning roles, ideally within a fast-moving or high-volume environment. Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop a team. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate cross-functionally. Highly organised, with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Demonstrated experience in change management and driving continuous improvement. Ability to work under pressure and adjust priorities quickly in response to changing business needs. Proficiency in planning systems, Excel, and data analysis tools; experience with ERP or TMS systems is advantageous. What We Offer Competitive salary & benefits, including annual leave, pension, and a Cycle to Work scheme Ongoing training and development opportunities 24/7 confidential support for you and your family Flexible working options and family-friendly policies Guaranteed interview for candidates meeting essential criteria (Disability Confident Employer) Ready to make an impact? Apply today and help us build a sustainable future together. Smurfit Westrock reserve the right to only shortlist candidates who meet both the Essential and Desirable Criteria. We are an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their sex; religious or similar philosophical belief; political opinion; race; age; sexual orientation; or, whether they are married or are in a civil partnership; or, whether they are disabled; or whether they have undergone, are undergoing or intend to undergo gender reassignment. We practice equality of opportunity in employment and select the best person for the job