Print & Material Planner (Outsourcing)

AQA and AQA Affiliates; Guildford; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational assessment organization is seeking a Print & Material Planner in Guildford. In this role, you'll manage print specifications, coordinate outsourced jobs, and drive cost optimisation in print operations. The ideal candidate should have experience in print procurement and project management, along with strong relationship-building skills. This position offers the chance to shape procedures and a collaborative environment, supporting work-life balance and inclusion.

Benefits

Flexibility for work-life balance

Collaborative environment

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• Experience in print procurement and production.
• Ability to understand supply chain processes.
• Skills to influence and resolve issues positively.

Responsibilities

• Manage print and material specifications.
• Coordinate outsourced print jobs.
• Drive improvements in processes and cost optimisation.

Skills

Print procurement

Project management

Supply chain understanding

Relationship building

Cost optimisation

Job description

Job title : Print & Material Planner

Contract type : Permanent

Location : Guildford

Salary : £28,000 - £31,300

Working arrangements : Hybrid - two days a week in the office

Think you can keep complex print projects on track and deliver with precision? We'd love to see what you can do!

As a Print & Material Planner you'll play a key role in ensuring that every print and material specification is delivered accurately and on time. This is an opportunity to work at the heart of AQA's operations, supporting the delivery of high-quality assessments that make a real difference to learners.

You'll manage the outsourcing of print jobs that can't be scheduled internally, from banners to brochures, ensuring cost-effective and timely production. You'll work closely with internal teams and external suppliers to keep our supply chain running smoothly and efficiently.

Key responsibilities

In this role, you'll be responsible for :

• Managing print and material specifications, providing expert advice to internal customers and suppliers.
• Coordinating outsourced print jobs, balancing production time and cost to meet deadlines.
• Driving improvements in processes and cost optimisation across print and logistics operations.

What we are looking for

You'll thrive in this role if you :

• Have experience or the ability to quickly learn about print procurement and production.
• Understand supply chain processes and can build strong relationships across teams.
• Are confident influencing and resolving issues while maintaining a positive customer experience.
• Can manage multiple tasks under pressure and work independently on projects.
• Have or can develop strong project management skills.

What's in it for you

This role offers :

• The chance to shape new procedures and guidance for a key operational role.
• Opportunities to contribute to supplier reviews and cost optimisation projects.
• A collaborative environment where your ideas for improvement are valued.
• Flexibility and support for work-life balance.
• A culture that champions diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning.

Diversity and inclusion statement

At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background-is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

Application process

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role by 23.59 on Sunday 11 January.

Interviews will take place on 21 and 23 January in the Guildford office.