At a Glance
- Tasks: Define and sustain world-class planning standards while driving digital transformation.
- Company: Join Syngenta, a leader in agricultural innovation with a global impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and an extensive benefits package.
- Other info: Hybrid role based in Manchester with a diverse and inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in agriculture while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong planning background and experience with ERP systems required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Syngenta Crop Protection is a leader in agricultural innovation, bringing breakthrough technologies and solutions that enable farmers to grow productively and sustainably. We offer a leading portfolio of crop protection solutions for plant and soil health, as well as digital solutions that transform the decision-making capabilities of farmers. Our 17,900 employees serve to advance agriculture in more than 90 countries around the world. Syngenta Crop Protection is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, and is part of the Syngenta Group. Our employees reflect the diversity of our customers, the markets where we operate and the communities which we serve. No matter what your position, you will have a vital role in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture.
We are looking for a Planning Expert to define, govern, and sustain world-class planning standards by translating innovative continuous improvement concepts into scalable global practices. The role drives transformative step-changes, ensuring that Syngenta’s planning capabilities are resilient, data-driven, and future-proofed against evolving global complexities.
Responsibilities/accountabilities will also include:
- Governance, Principles, and Strategy: establishing the global planning vision and driving global adherence.
- Digital Transformation and AI Integration: leading AI and Automation Adoption and establishing autonomous process framework.
- Capability Building, Knowledge management and upskilling of planners.
- Regional and Cross-Functional Collaboration regarding Regional Implementation Support and supervising data integrity and master data management.
Qualifications and required experience:
- Strong planning background in cross-functional supply operations spanning diverse geographies, cultures, and organizational levels (Country, Regional, and Manufacturing Site).
- Proven expertise in leveraging ERP systems (e.g., SAP S4) and Advanced Planning/Optimizer systems (e.g., SAP IBP/APO) to drive operational results.
- Strong cross-functional influence and demonstrated success operating within a complex, multi-cultural matrix environment, balancing local operational needs with global strategic mandates.
- Integrated Demand-Supply Perspective: A strong appreciation for Demand Planning and the ability to bridge the gap between commercial forecasting and supply execution.
- Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving: Practical experience applying Lean/CI tools (e.g., A3, 5 Whys, Root Cause Analysis) and conducting cost-benefit analyses to drive process efficiency.
- Professional Certification: APICS CPIM or CSCP certification is highly desirable as a mark of functional mastery.
- Change Agent Experience: History of participating in or leading the transition of planning teams toward new digital tools or organizational structure.
Additional Information:
The role is based in the Syngenta Manchester office in Didsbury. This is a hybrid contract with a minimum of 2 days per week to be worked in the office, with remote working available for the remainder of the week. The site is a hub hosting varied Global, Regional and Local roles, from Supply Chain, Digital IT to Sourcing and Change Management roles. You will find a dynamic and agile working environment, with a diverse and inclusive culture.
What we offer:
- Extensive benefits package including a generous pension scheme, bonus scheme, private medical & life insurance.
- Flexible working, dependent on role requirements.
- Up to 31.5 days annual holiday.
- We offer a position which contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.
- Learning culture and wide range of training options.
Planning Expert in Manchester employer: Syngenta Group
Syngenta Crop Protection is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture in the heart of Didsbury, Manchester. With a strong focus on employee growth through extensive training options and a commitment to innovation, we empower our team to drive meaningful change in agriculture. Our comprehensive benefits package, including a generous pension scheme and flexible working arrangements, ensures that our employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Expert in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Syngenta on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Syngenta’s values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely excited about contributing to their mission in agricultural innovation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering behavioural questions. We want to hear about specific situations where you’ve made an impact, especially in planning and cross-functional collaboration.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Syngenta team.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Expert in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Planning Expert role. Highlight your planning background and any experience with ERP systems like SAP S4 or Advanced Planning tools. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about agricultural innovation and how you can contribute to our mission at Syngenta. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention your experience with Lean/CI tools and any successful projects where you’ve driven process efficiency. We’re looking for change agents who can lead transformative initiatives!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Syngenta Group
✨Know Your Planning Standards
Before the interview, brush up on world-class planning standards and how they apply to Syngenta. Be ready to discuss how you can translate innovative concepts into scalable practices, as this will show your understanding of their needs.
✨Showcase Your Digital Savvy
Familiarise yourself with ERP systems like SAP S4 and Advanced Planning tools such as SAP IBP/APO. Prepare examples of how you've successfully integrated digital solutions in past roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Emphasise Cross-Functional Collaboration
Think of specific instances where you've worked across diverse teams and cultures. Highlight your ability to balance local needs with global strategies, as this will demonstrate your fit within Syngenta's multi-cultural environment.
✨Demonstrate Continuous Improvement Mindset
Be prepared to discuss your experience with Lean/CI tools and how you've applied them to drive efficiency. Share concrete examples of problem-solving and cost-benefit analyses you've conducted, as this aligns with their focus on transformative change.
