Head of Planning

Malaysia Marine & Heavy Engineering; Pasir Gudang; On-site; MYR 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading heavy engineering firm in Johor, Malaysia is seeking an experienced Central Planning Lead to optimize yard space and drive operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have over 20 years of experience in planning and operations management, particularly in heavy engineering or construction sectors. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills are essential for this role, which focuses on efficient resource utilization and timely project delivery.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 20 years of experience in planning and operations management.
• Strong knowledge of yard space planning and project scheduling.
• Proven ability to implement continuous improvement methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead Central Planning to optimize yard space and production.
• Oversee yard space planning strategies for multiple projects.
• Manage production planning process to meet deadlines.
• Implement operational excellence initiatives to improve productivity.

Skills

Yard space planning

Project scheduling

Production planning

Lean Six Sigma

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Engineering/ Industrial Management/ Operations Management

Job description

Job Summary

Lead Central Planning to optimize yard space, project and production planning, and drive operational excellence, ensuring efficient resource utilization, timely project delivery, and continuous improvement across the heavy engineering yard.

Key Responsibilities

Yard Space Planning

• Develop and implement yard space planning strategies to maximize resource utilization and accommodate multiple projects efficiently.
• Oversee the allocation of yard space, ensuring optimal layout and configuration for project execution, material handling, and storage.
• Coordinate with project teams to plan and allocate space for heavy equipment, materials, and workstations, minimizing downtime and improving productivity.
• Monitor yard capacity and adjust plans to accommodate project changes or new requirements.

Project Planning

• Lead the development of project plans, including timelines, resource allocation, and risk management strategies to ensure on-time delivery.
• Collaborate with project managers and other stakeholders to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
• Develop and maintain a project scheduling system to track progress, identify potential delays, and implement corrective actions.
• Manage and monitor for alignment of project plans with client requirements, budget constraints, and yard capabilities.

Production Planning

• Oversee the production planning process, ensuring efficient scheduling and allocation of resources (manpower, equipment, materials) to meet project deadlines.
• Monitor production schedules and workflows, identifying bottlenecks and implementing solutions to improve throughput.
• Develop contingency plans to address potential disruptions in production, such as equipment failures or supply chain delays.
• Coordinate with procurement and supply chain teams to ensure timely availability of materials and resources.

Operations Excellence

• Implement operational excellence initiatives to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency across the engineering yard.
• Analyse operational data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for process improvement and cost reduction.
• Lead cross-functional teams in the implementation of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Develop and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain high standards of safety, quality, and efficiency.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Management

• Collaborate with project managers, engineering, production, procurement, and other teams to ensure seamless integration of planning activities.
• Act as a liaison between various departments to coordinate planning efforts and resolve any conflicts or issues.
• Provide regular updates to the COO on the status of planning activities, project progress, and key performance metrics.
• Engage with external stakeholders, including clients and suppliers, to align planning activities with project requirements and expectations.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the team, ensuring they possess the skills and expertise to execute their roles effectively and contribute to the company's financial stability.

Requirements

• Degree in Engineering/ Industrial Management/ Operations Management or equivalent.
• Minimum of twenty (20) years’ working experience in planning and operations management in heavy engineering, construction, or manufacturing sectors.
• Strong knowledge of yard space planning, project scheduling, and production planning
• Lean Six Sigma, PMP (Project Management Professional), or similar certifications are an advantage.
• Proven ability to lead operational excellence initiatives and implement continuous improvement methodologies.
• Having experience in oil and gas industry, shipyard or related marine industry.
• Excellent communication, leadership and problem solving.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• High ethical standards and commitment to integrity.