Production Planner - FMCG Manufacturing

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Production Planner for an FMCG manufacturer in Paarl, Western Cape. You will craft and maintain production schedules, coordinate with procurement, production and warehousing teams, and ensure on-time delivery from raw materials to finished goods.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in production planning in manufacturing, strong analytical and organizational skills, and experience with ERP/MRP systems (SAP APO or Oracle ASCP).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in SCM/Operations/Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years in production planning or scheduling within manufacturing (FMCG preferred).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics.
• Experience with planning software (SAP APO, Oracle ASCP or similar).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational and detail-oriented approach.
• Good communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Hybrid remote/on-site work experience is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain production schedules based on forecasts, orders, and inventory.
• Coordinate with procurement, production, and warehouse teams for raw materials.
• Monitor progress and adjust schedules to meet changes.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and improvements.
• Collaborate with sales/marketing on forecasts and promotions.
• Ensure adherence to targets, quality standards, and delivery timelines.
• Manage production planning software and databases.
• Prepare reports on performance, capacity utilization, and inventory.
• Communicate scheduling updates to stakeholders and manage disruptions.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Thrives in fast-paced environments

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field

Tools

ERP/MRP systems (SAP APO)

ERP/MRP systems (Oracle ASCP)

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturer, is looking for a proactive Production Planner to join their team in **Paarl, Western Cape**. This role is central to ensuring that production schedules are optimized to meet demand, minimize downtime, and efficiently utilize resources. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes. You will be responsible for creating and maintaining production plans, coordinating with various departments, and ensuring the smooth flow of operations from raw material procurement to finished goods dispatch.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain accurate production schedules based on demand forecasts, sales orders, and inventory levels.
• Coordinate with procurement, production, and warehouse teams to ensure timely availability of raw materials and components.
• Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as needed to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or changes in demand.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to understand product forecasts and promotional activities.
• Ensure adherence to production targets, quality standards, and delivery timelines.
• Manage and update production planning software and databases.
• Prepare reports on production performance, capacity utilization, and inventory status.
• Communicate effectively with all stakeholders regarding production schedules and potential disruptions.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to production planning and scheduling.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in production planning or scheduling within a manufacturing environment, preferably FMCG.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics.
• Proficiency in using planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle ASCP, or similar ERP/MRP systems).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other relevant software.
• Experience working in a hybrid remote/on-site capacity is beneficial.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund. They provide excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression within a supportive and dynamic work environment located in **Paarl, Western Cape**. This role allows for a blend of on-site collaboration and remote work flexibility.