Print & Material Planner (Outsourcing)

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

Job summary

An educational organization in Guildford is looking for a Print & Material Planner to manage print and material specifications, coordinate outsourced print jobs, and drive process improvements. The ideal candidate should have strong project management abilities, understand supply chain processes, and effectively resolve issues while maintaining a positive customer experience. The role offers a hybrid working arrangement and opportunities to influence operational practices significantly.

Benefits

Opportunities to shape new procedures

Collaborative environment

Flexibility for work-life balance

Culture of diversity and inclusion

Qualifications

• Experience or ability to learn about print procurement and production.
• Understanding of supply chain processes and relationship building.
• Strong project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage print and material specifications.
• Coordinate outsourced print jobs effectively.
• Improve processes and optimize costs.

Skills

Print procurement and production

Supply chain understanding

Influencing and resolving issues

Project management

Job description

Print & Material Planner

Location: Guildford | Contract type: Permanent | Salary: 28000 - 31300

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

Overview

Think you can keep complex print projects on track and deliver with precision? 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

• 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.

Qualifications & Experience

• Experience or the ability to quickly learn about print procurement and production.
• Understanding of supply chain processes and the ability to build strong relationships across teams.
• Confidence influencing and resolving issues while maintaining a positive customer experience.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure and work independently on projects.
• Strong project management skills.

Benefits & What you’ll get

• 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 & Inclusion

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.