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- Tasks: Lead planning function and optimise production flow for innovative engineering projects.
- Company: Established engineering and technology company with a focus on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £55,000, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape planning strategy and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Senior planning experience in manufacturing or engineering; strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team and drive continuous improvement using Lean methods.
Make your application after reading the following skill and qualification requirements for this position.
Location: Bristol
Salary: Up to £55,000 plus benefits
Employment Type: Permanent
Working Arrangements: Hybrid following probation (3 days on site and 2 from home)
An established engineering and technology company is seeking a Head of Planning to lead its planning function and drive operational excellence across the full product and project lifecycle. This is a senior role with significant influence, shaping planning strategy, optimising production flow, and ensuring seamless alignment from customer order through to shipment.
You’ll set the direction for planning, strengthen systems and processes, and lead a team of five, responsible for production scheduling, capacity planning, and inventory control. Working closely with engineering, supply chain, quality, sales, and operations, you’ll ensure plans are aligned, risks are managed early, and new products are introduced smoothly.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the planning function and develop a robust production and capacity planning framework.
- Build and maintain accurate schedules, including the Master Production Schedule.
- Oversee demand forecasting, inventory planning, and material availability.
- Drive continuous improvement using Lean and data‑driven methods.
- Ensure planning data accuracy and effective use of ERP/MRP systems.
- Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing planning team.
- Work closely with engineering, sales, supply chain, quality, and operations to align plans and resolve risks early.
- Senior planning experience in manufacturing or engineering.
- Strong understanding of MRP II, ERP/MES systems, and modern planning tools.
- Confident with data, forecasting, and scenario modelling.
- Proven leadership and team‑development capability.
- Customer‑focused, analytical, and able to influence across functions.
- Degree or equivalent experience in Supply Chain, Engineering, Operations, or similar.
- APICS, Lean, or CI certifications are a bonus.
For more information, please contact Cathy Swain.
Head of Planning in Bristol employer: Verso Recruitment Group
Contact Detail:
Verso Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s planning strategies and recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who understands their business and can contribute right away.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams and improved processes in your previous roles. This will help you stand out as a strong candidate for the Head of Planning position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Planning role. Highlight your senior planning experience and any relevant qualifications, like your understanding of MRP II or ERP systems. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational excellence in previous roles, and don’t forget to mention your leadership skills.
Showcase Your Data Skills: Since this role involves a lot of data-driven decision-making, make sure to showcase your confidence with data, forecasting, and scenario modelling in your application. We love seeing candidates who can leverage data to optimise production flow!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Verso Recruitment Group
✨Know Your Planning Frameworks
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of production and capacity planning frameworks. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these in past roles, especially in manufacturing or engineering settings. This will show that you understand the core responsibilities of the Head of Planning role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams in the past, particularly in planning functions. Highlight your experience in coaching and developing high-performing teams, as this is crucial for the role. Use specific scenarios where your leadership made a significant impact.
✨Demonstrate Data Savvy
Since the role requires a strong understanding of data, forecasting, and scenario modelling, be ready to discuss your experience with MRP II, ERP/MES systems, and any modern planning tools you've used. Bring examples of how you've leveraged data to drive continuous improvement.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company’s values and culture before the interview. Be prepared to explain how your customer-focused approach aligns with their mission. This will help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the company.
