Production Planner - #2181281

Job Title: Material Supply Planner

Location: UK & Ireland (Hybrid – 2 days WFH, flexible core hours)

Employment Type: Contract / Interim

Industry: FMCG / Food Manufacturing

About the Opportunity

Are you an experienced Supply or Production Planner looking to make an impact with a global FMCG market leader?

We are currently partnering with a household-name food and snacking manufacturer to recruit a Material Supply Planner on a contract basis. This is a critical role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, offering fantastic work-life balance through a flexible hybrid model (2 days working from home per week with core-hour flexibility).

The Role

As Material Supply Planner, you will lead end-to-end production planning and finite scheduling across key manufacturing lines. You will sit at the centre of plant operations, suppliers, and commercial demand to keep supply flowing smoothly while keeping waste to an absolute minimum.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute short- and long-term end-to-end supply chain plans for internal and external production assets.
• Deliver master schedules, detailed line-level finite scheduling, capacity planning, and material requirement plans (MRP).
• Manage raw material availability and balance supply schedules against tight shelf-life and expiry constraints.
• Oversee key performance areas and maintain inventory accuracy in systems such as SAP ECC to minimise write-offs and stock loss.
• Maintain top-tier customer fill rates while keeping finished goods inventories at or below target levels.
• Conduct root-cause analysis and lead continuous improvement initiatives across the planning function.
• Collaborate closely with plant operations, procurement, demand planning, and cross-functional teams within an S&OP / IBP framework.

What We’re Looking For

• Industry Background: Proven planning experience within a fast-paced FMCG/CPG manufacturing environment (food/beverage preferred, though fast-moving automotive backgrounds will also be considered).
• Shelf-Life Awareness: Practical experience managing products or raw materials with strict expiry dates and shelf-life constraints.
• Planning Frameworks: Familiarity working within integrated S&OP / IBP environments.
• Systems Experience: Confident working with enterprise ERP/planning systems (SAP ECC / KPA or equivalent).
• Analytical Mindset: Strong data interpretation and root-cause problem-solving skills.
• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional communication skills with the ability to influence cross-functional operational teams.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive Pay: Excellent hourly rate (details provided upon application).
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid working (2 days per week from home) with flexible working arrangements around core hours.
• Brand Exposure: High-profile experience on your CV with a world-renowned FMCG brand.