Production Planner / Scheduler

Schlemmer; KwaMakhutha; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Job summary

Schlemmer, based in Amanzimtoti, requires a Production Planner/Scheduler to develop weekly plans for filling and bulk manufacturing, ensuring raw materials and packaging are available to keep production running smoothly.

You will analyse orders and forecasts, monitor inventory, and prepare weekly reports while coordinating with Marketing, R&D, Procurement, Warehousing, Production, Quality, Maintenance and Distribution teams.

Qualifications

• BCom degree or equivalent qualification required.
• 2–3 years of experience in Production Planning or Production Scheduling.
• Experience in FMCG manufacturing is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of production planning, scheduling, inventory and supply chain processes.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems; Syspro is advantageous.
• Advanced Excel skills with strong data analysis capabilities.
• Excellent analytical and numerical abilities.
• Proactive problem-solving with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage weekly production plans and schedules for filling and bulk manufacturing.
• Analyse customer orders and forecast trends to anticipate production requirements.
• Ensure timely availability of raw materials and packaging to support uninterrupted production.
• Monitor inventory levels, stock on hand, and out-of-stock requirements.
• Prepare weekly stock and production reports and infill reports.
• Assess staffing requirements and monitor overtime costs against production needs and budgets.
• Lead daily morning production meetings and align departments on priorities.
• Identify and resolve production disruptions and supply chain issues.
• Support initiatives to improve production efficiency and streamline processes.
• Maintain production trackers for product run-downs and new launches.
• Assist with planning and scheduling export orders.
• Support special production projects, including seasonal ranges.

Skills

Advanced Excel

Data analysis

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

BCom degree or equivalent qualification

Tools

Syspro ERP

Job description

ABOUT THIS ROLE

Are you an analytical and organised Production Planner who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment?

A successful FMCG organisation based in Amanzimtoti is looking for a Production Planner / Scheduler to join their dynamic team and play a key role in ensuring production runs efficiently and customer demand is met.

This is an exciting opportunity for a supply chain professional who enjoys working with data, coordinating across multiple departments, solving production challenges, and finding ways to improve operational efficiency.

You will be responsible for planning and scheduling both filling production and bulk manufacturing, while ensuring the availability of raw materials, packaging, stock, and resources required to keep production running smoothly.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Develop and manage weekly production plans and schedules for filling and bulk manufacturing
• Analyse customer orders and forecast trends to anticipate production requirements
• Ensure the timely availability of raw materials and packaging to support uninterrupted production
• Monitor inventory levels, product availability, stock on hand, and out-of-stock requirements
• Prepare weekly stock and production reports, including infill reports
• Assess staffing requirements and monitor overtime costs against production needs and budgets
• Monitor production progress and provide regular reports on performance, challenges, and potential delays
• Identify and resolve production disruptions, supply chain issues, and productivity challenges
• Assist with initiatives aimed at improving production efficiency and streamlining processes
• Maintain production trackers for product run-downs, new product launches, and other key production activities
• Assist with the planning and scheduling of export orders
• Support special production projects, including seasonal and promotional product ranges
• Assist with change management relating to production processes and procedures
• Maintain accurate Bills of Materials and stock codes to support traceability and efficient changeovers
• Lead daily morning production meetings and ensure all relevant departments are aligned on priorities and production requirements
• Liaise closely with Marketing, R&D, Procurement, Warehousing, Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Distribution teams

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Relevant BCom degree or equivalent qualification
• 2–3 years' experience in Production Planning or Production Scheduling
• Previous experience within an FMCG manufacturing environment will be highly advantageous
• Strong understanding of production planning, scheduling, inventory, and supply chain processes
• Experience working with ERP/MRP systems – Syspro experience will be advantageous
• Advanced Excel skills and strong ability to analyse and interpret data
• Strong analytical and numerical abilities
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to resolving challenges
• Strong business acumen and an ability to identify production inefficiencies
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multiple departments and stakeholders
• Experience within personal care, cosmetics, or related FMCG manufacturing will be advantageous
• Experience with production scheduling tools and techniques will be advantageous