Job Title: Supply Chain Planner (Production)
Location: Liverpool, UK (onsite)
About the Role:
We are seeking a dynamic Supply Chain Planner (Production) to join our fast-paced, vertically integrated Manufacturing & Logistics Centre. This role is integral to ensuring smooth production planning, inventory management, and supply chain coordination across various business functions. The ideal candidate will have experience in food manufacturing and a passion for driving process improvements.
Key Responsibilities:
* Develop and manage daily, weekly, and monthly production plans to optimize manufacturing efficiency.
* Ensure production schedules align with allergen controls, labor resources, and commercial priorities.
* Monitor and adjust factory output against the plan in an agile manner.
* Plan and schedule ad hoc production runs for global customer orders.
* Maintain finished goods inventory levels on both short and long-term bases.
* Participate in the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process.
* Model and coordinate sales forecasts to meet demand efficiently.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve production planning.
* Present data insights to support strategic supply chain decisions.
* Work closely with Procurement, Commercial, Fulfilment, and NPD teams.
* Play a key role in new product launches and product discontinuations.
* Improve existing planning tools to support business growth.
Immediate Responsibilities & Key Projects:
* Take ownership of the day-to-day production planning function.
* Review current planning practices and implement rapid improvements.
* Build strong relationships across key business functions.
* Improve stock cover across all SKUs, ensuring effective stock management.
* Work with Commercial, NPD, Technical, and Operations teams daily.
* Support a continuous improvement culture within manufacturing and planning.
* Challenge stock levels, plan attainment, and ingredient requirements proactively.
* Manage daily reporting and key supply chain metrics.
* Operate independently and take initiative in problem-solving.
Skills & Competencies:
* Strong proficiency in Excel and data analysis.
* Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail.
* Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
* Strong communication skills to interact with senior management.
* Capable of overseeing planning for a large range of product lines.
* Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced environment.
* Ability to document key working processes systematically.
* Positive, solution-focused mindset.
Candidate Profile:
* Essential:
* Highly organized with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Proven experience in a planning or business forecasting role.
* Ability to multitask, meet deadlines, and lead cross-functional teams.
* Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to influence stakeholders.
* Desirable:
* Degree in a relevant field.
* Experience in FMCG or Sports Nutrition.
* Experience in an E-commerce or vertically integrated business.
Ideal Candidate:
* A highly numerate and analytical professional seeking a commercial challenge.
* An exceptional graduate with relevant work placement or analytical experience.
* A supply chain planner with 2-3 years of experience in a similar role.