Value Stream Planning Analyst - Tables-1563 in Ely

The Value Stream Planning Analyst plays a key role in strengthening production planning and operational performance through data-driven analysis and ERP system optimisation. This role bridges the gap between office and manufacturing environments, supporting value stream improvement initiatives, driving planning accuracy, and enabling informed decision-making. Working closely with the Value Stream Planning Manager and Business Unit Leaders, the role helps to deliver efficient, reliable and lean-led planning processes across the business unit.

Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm (fully on site role)

Department: T tables

Interview process: 2 stage process following shortlisting – First stage: 1 hour Teams interview; Second stage: OnSite 2 hour interview.

Who we are: Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture of a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

Where you will be working: You will be working in our new purpose-built facility in Witchford, Ely. Our purpose-built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.

What is essential to us:

• Advanced user of ERP/MRP systems, with a proven ability to configure, optimise, and drive process improvements.
• Experienced in data mining, report building, and dashboarding using ERP, Excel, Power BI, or similar tools.
• Strong understanding of BOM structures, routings, and lead-time management.
• Familiar with flow-based production principles, pull systems, and takt time concepts is highly desirable.
• A good understanding of LEAN manufacturing techniques.
• Strong computer literacy and understanding of ERP systems (D365).
• A positive and flexible approach to continuous improvement activities.
• Willing to change hours as needed to ensure onsite production scheduling support.

What we would like you to do/ to see:

• Generate and maintain plans to meet promised delivery dates, matching MRP demand with works orders based on stock availability and capacity.
• Collaborate closely with the Inventory Control, Purchasing and other relevant members of the Planning team to ensure planned demand is achievable and parts are available- MRP, supermarket inventories and kanban.
• Collaborate with global teams to support change and improvement opportunities.
• Analyse sales demand trends to drive lead initiatives.
• Attend and contribute to daily Tier 3 meeting.
• Proactively seek to develop knowledge of MRP settings, attending the PPP D365 meetings and collaborating with local and other teams.
• Analyse Business Unit related KPI reports to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Use data to enhance visual management on the shop floor.
• Regularly visit the gemba to validate data accuracy, understand process flow, and align office planning with shop-floor realities.
• Be the point of contact for upcoming NPI releases and custom product releases.
• Attend obsolescence meetings and be prepared to provide projected warehouse depletion timelines to ensure uninterrupted product supply; communicate warehouse run down updates regularly to Production and Engineering.
• Support and/or lead initiatives in office functions to support operational changes required on the shop floor.
• Participate in problem-solving events to identify root causes (5 Whys, Ishikawa, etc.) and drive continuous improvement initiatives that follow PDCA, A3 or other lean practical problem-solving methods.

What will you get: At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.

Benefits: Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.

This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old. This role does not currently meet the UK Visas and Immigration criteria for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa; we are therefore unable to accept applications that require employer sponsorship in order to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa. All offers of employment are subject to eligibility to work in the UK.

We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.

Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX or e-mail recruitment@thorlabs.com.

We are Disability Confident Committed. In line with the requirements of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.