Lead Material Planner 12 Month Fixed Term Contract
As the Lead Material Planner, you will be responsible for managing and developing a small team of planners, while also being hands-on with day-to-day planning activities. The core focus of the role is to shape and drive the materials planning function - ensuring the right materials are available at the right time, supporting production schedules, and contributing to efficient supply chain operations.
This is a key role in supporting our journey to implement a robust MRP/ERP system and requires someone who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with a proactive mindset and strong data handling capabilities.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, coach, and develop a small team of material planners to deliver high performance.
* Own and evolve the material planning processes to support production schedules and inventory targets.
* Work cross-functionally with procurement, production, engineering, and logistics to ensure material availability aligns with operational priorities.
* Support the implementation and optimisation of an MRP/ERP system, including data migration, process mapping, and user training.
* Maintain and improve Excel-based planning tools and dashboards where needed, especially during system transition phases.
* Analyse material demand, inventory trends, and supply risks; take proactive steps to mitigate disruptions.
* Develop KPI reporting to monitor planning accuracy, supplier performance, and stock levels.
* Identify opportunities to streamline processes and drive continuous improvement in planning and materials management.
* Ensure accuracy of BOMs, part master data, and other key planning inputs in ERP systems.
About You
* Proven experience in a materials planning or supply chain planning role within a manufacturing environment - ideally low volume, high value.
* Previous experience leading or mentoring a small team.
* Demonstrated experience in supporting or leading the implementation of an MRP/ERP system (e.g. SAP, Epicor, Oracle, Infor, etc.).
* Advanced Excel skills - capable of building and maintaining complex spreadsheets for planning, forecasting, and reporting.
* Strong understanding of MRP principles, inventory management, and demand planning.
* Comfortable working with ambiguity and taking initiative to create structure and clarity.
* Excellent communication skills, able to work cross-functionally and influence stakeholders at all levels.
* Highly analytical with attention to detail and a continuous improvement mindset.
Desirable Qualifications
* Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field.
* APICS/CPIM certification or equivalent.
* Experience in engineering or project-based manufacturing environments.
At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Contract
Job function
Materials Planning
Industries
Defense and Space Manufacturing
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