3rd Party Production Planner *High-Growth Consumer Brand*

JR United Kingdom; Bedford; Remote; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consumer brand is seeking a 3rd Party Production Planner to manage production planning and procurement across a growing product range. This remote role involves monitoring performance, maintaining inventory, and collaborating with suppliers to ensure operational excellence. Candidates should possess proven experience in a fast-paced FMCG environment and be highly organized with strong analytical skills.

Benefits

Bonus

Pension

Product Discount

Qualifications

• Proven experience in third-party production planning within a fast-paced FMCG environment.
• Experience managing UK and international manufacturers and suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end production schedules with third-party manufacturers.
• Monitor stock levels to support production readiness.
• Report on key supply chain metrics.

Skills

Production Planning

Inventory Management

ERP/MRP Systems

Excel

Communication

Negotiation

Analytical Skills

Process Implementation

Job description

Job Title: 3rd Party Production Planner — High-Growth Consumer Brand

Location: Remote working — with occasional travel to a North West-based HQ

Salary: Up to £45,000 DOE + Bonus, Pension, Product Discount & More

Our client is a high-growth consumer brand known for its product quality, pace of innovation, and dynamic team culture. As they continue to scale rapidly, they’re looking for a 3rd Party Production Planner to take ownership of production planning and support procurement across a growing product range. Working closely with third-party manufacturers and suppliers in the UK and abroad, this role is essential to ensuring seamless operations, efficient purchasing, and optimal inventory levels. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in a values-led, fast-paced business that’s investing in its people, systems, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

1. Production Planning

• Manage end-to-end production schedules with third-party manufacturers
• Monitor performance, resolve delays, and ensure delivery aligns with forecasted needs
• Raise accurate POs in line with production requirements and pre-negotiated contracts
• Track deliveries and maintain clear documentation (including PODs)
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships while supporting sustainability goals

Inventory & Forecasting

• Monitor stock levels across the supply chain to support production readiness
• Collaborate with internal teams on demand planning and forecast accuracy
• Identify and implement process improvements
• Support the rollout of new ERP/MRP systems to drive efficiency and traceability

Reporting & KPIs

• Report on key supply chain metrics including on-time delivery, inventory accuracy, and supplier performance
• Provide actionable insights to support data-led decision-making

Key Requirements

• Proven experience in third-party production planning within a fast-paced FMCG environment
• Confident managing UK and international manufacturers and suppliers
• Skilled in ERP/MRP systems and Excel for planning, analysis, and reporting
• Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
• Highly organised, analytical, and solutions-oriented
• Experience with system or process implementation is a plus

Interview Process

1. Stage 1: Line manager & team interview focusing on technical skills and role-specific competencies
2. Stage 2: Culture and values interview to assess alignment with the team and company mission

People are at the heart of everything we do. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process where everyone can be their authentic self.

Note: While we would love to reply to all applicants, due to high volumes, if you don’t hear back within 14 days, the role may no longer be progressing. But don’t worry — more opportunities are on the horizon! Follow us at Mackenzie Jones Recruitment to stay in the loop.