Materials Planner

Hernshead Recruitment Ltd; Harlow; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment firm based in the United Kingdom is looking for a proactive Materials / Demand Planner to ensure product availability and inventory control for a manufacturing operation. The role requires a strong communicator proficient in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems, with a focus on continuous improvement and lean principles. Your contributions will help in delivering products on time and reducing overall inventory levels while meeting business growth objectives.

Qualifications

• Experience in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment.
• Excellent attention to detail and organization skills.
• Comfortable working and communicating with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Ensure availability of finished goods and materials.
• Manage stock levels to meet availability and inventory targets.
• Monitor supplier delivery performance.

Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Excel

Strong communication skills

Highly organized

Problem-solving mindset

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a proactive and analytical Materials / Demand Planner to support a growing manufacturing operation. This role plays a key part in ensuring the right balance between product availability and inventory control, supporting business growth while meeting lean manufacturing objectives.

Purpose of the Role

The primary purpose of this position is to ensure appropriate levels of both component materials and finished goods are maintained in line with forecasted demand. The role supports the business objective of:

• Delivering products On-Time to customers
• Reducing inventory levels while increasing stock turns
• Supporting continuous improvement and lean principles

Key Responsibilities

• Support customer demand by ensuring availability of finished goods and materials produced at the Harlow manufacturing site
• Manage planning signals effectively and release purchase orders in line with forecasts and agreed safety stock levels
• Challenge forecasts where appropriate to prevent over- or under-stocking
• Manage stock levels of materials and finished goods to meet availability and inventory targets
• Expedite urgent material or product requirements to ensure production and delivery schedules are met
• Monitor and report supplier delivery performance against plan
• Manage product changeovers to maintain continuity of supply while minimising obsolescence
• Maintain accurate system data including item master data and stocking parameters
• Build strong working relationships with internal departments and external suppliers
• Contribute to continuous improvement within the planning function and wider business
• Escalate risks or issues to the Line Manager and agree appropriate corrective actions
• Undertake any additional duties reasonably required by management

Experience Required

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables and basic functions
• IT literate and comfortable working with ERP/MRP systems
• Strong communicator, confident liaising with suppliers and internal teams
• Highly organised with good attention to detail
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment
• Proactive mindset with a problem-solving approach

Interested? Click apply below