We are currently recruiting an experienced Planning & Materials Manager for our client based in Milton Keynes
The Company
Our client is passionate about producing high-quality, innovative food products that meet the diverse needs of their customers.
As a key player in the food industry, they pride themselves on their commitment to excellence, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Planning and Procurement Manager to join our clients team and help them drive our mission forward.
The Role:
This newly established role will be responsible for managing the raw materials and packaging components that drive our clients finished goods costs. You will oversee the sourcing and purchasing of key raw materials, as well as packaging materials ranging from flow wrap film to cardboard outers.
You'll quickly become an expert in the key ingredient markets, gaining a deep understanding of cost drivers and availability. By monitoring market reports, you'll identify optimal buying times and seasonal trends, ensuring we procure materials at the best possible rates.
In addition to raw materials, you'll source other goods and services that the business requires, always aiming to secure the most competitive prices. Your strength in building and maintaining strong external relationships with suppliers will be crucial, as you'll need to clearly communicate our business mission and goals, partnering with suppliers to achieve the best outcomes for the business.
Within the factory, you'll take charge of planning the weekly production cycle. This involves ensuring that the team, packaging, and raw materials are available to meet the demand as foretasted by our demand planning team. Once the plan is in place, you'll efficiently manage the factory's workforce plan, ensuring all production deadlines are met on time and in a cost-effective manner.
You thrive on challenges and excel at finding solutions quickly and efficiently. Additionally, you'll report weekly to the senior team on factory performance, OTIF (On Time In Full) delivery, and the attainment of production plans. You'll also be expected to make recommendations for continuous improvement, ensuring the factory operates as cost-effectively as possible.
Responsibilities:
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Planning & Scheduling:
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Develop and implement production schedules that maximise efficiency and minimise waste.
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Monitor and adjust plans based on changes in demand, raw material availability, and production capacity.
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on production goals and time lines.
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Procurement:
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Source and negotiate with suppliers to obtain the best quality materials at competitive prices.
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Conduct research to source the best products and suppliers in terms of quality and service, and run tenders to select the appropriate supplier.
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Track raw material prices to ensure we are paying competitive rates, analysing the date to produce reports and make recommendations that drive cost efficiency.
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Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and vendors.
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Monitor and manage inventory levels to ensure consistent supply while minimising excess stock.
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Monitor the quality of service and build and maintain good relationships with new and existing suppliers.
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Budget Management:
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Prepare and manage the procurement budget, ensuring all purchases are within budgetary constraints.
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Analyze and report on cost-saving opportunities and financial performance related to procurement activities.
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Quality Assurance:
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Ensure that all procured materials meet the company's quality standards.
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Work closely with the quality control team to address any issues with suppliers or materials.
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Risk Management:
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Identify potential risks in the supply chain and develop contingency plans to mitigate them.
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Stay informed about market trends, price fluctuations, and potential disruptions in supply.
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Monitor production processes, recommending ways to improve efficiency, determine new equipment requirements.
Successful Applicants
- Team Player: Ability to build relationships quickly across all levels
- Experienced: At least 3 years of experience as a Production Planner and/or Procurement Manager.
- Proficient in Excel and Microsoft Tools: Strong numerical skills and effective communication abilities.
- Detail-Oriented and Organised: Exceptional attention to detail and time management, energised by meeting deadlines and solving problems.
- Skilled Negotiator: Comfortable with challenging conversations and adept at negotiation.
- Passion for Healthy, Sustainable Food: Ideally, a genuine interest in our mission of helping people eat real food.
- Excel Expertise: A passion for detail and advanced skills in Excel and spreadsheets.
How to Apply:
To apply, please apply online, or alternative send your CV to