Job Overview:
The Planning Department Lead will spearhead the planning group in designing and implementing processes and production plans that align with customer requirements, delivery timelines, inventory objectives, and manufacturing efficiency targets. This role encompasses both departmental management and the strategic planning necessary to support production and demand plans.
Key Responsibilities:
- Production Planning: Lead the creation and execution of both short- and long-term production plans to ensure timely material availability and alignment with established schedules.
- Master Schedule Management: Prepare and review a detailed monthly Master Schedule to fulfill customer requirements while minimizing crossovers and testing whenever feasible.
- ERP/MRP Optimization: Optimize SAP/MRP parameters to effectively support current planning strategies.
- Inventory Control: Drive inventory control objectives by developing and managing material and production plans to reduce inventory levels. Analyze inventory changes monthly, quarterly, and annually, implementing actions to meet targets across all inventory categories.
- Customer Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong partnerships with internal and external customers to drive continuous improvement in the Global Planning process across all regions.
- Forecast and Production Balance: Collaborate with Account Managers, Product Managers, and Customer Service Representatives to review forecasts and usage details, taking appropriate actions to balance production plans.
- Capacity Planning: Lead Operations in planning for current and future capacity requirements.
- Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP): Oversee the preparation and presentation of Sales & Operations Planning activities.
- Department Management: Manage and direct the Planning department, including setting objectives, facilitating professional development, and conducting performance management.
Requirements:
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Operations Management, Business, or a related field.
- Experience: 8-10 years of experience in a dynamic manufacturing environment, including at least 5 years in a management role.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency with ERP systems, MRP, and inventory management. Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and PowerPoint, for data analysis and reporting.
- Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a keen attention to detail.
- Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.
- Forecasting and Planning: Experience in demand forecasting and capacity planning.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Certifications: APICS certification.
- Systems Experience: SAP experience.
- Project Management: Demonstrated project management skills and experience with continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strategic Planning: Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans.
- Lean Manufacturing: Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and practices.