Graduate Planning & Data Analyst

Job Title:

Graduate Planning & Data Analyst

Location:

Leicester, LEC, GB, LE49JD

Business Unit:
Nul

Main Duties/Responsibilities:

• Source Data Collection:
  Responsible for the daily collection of raw operational data from the production floor, including machine uptime, labor hours, and output volumes.
• Data Auditing:
  Perform regular "sanity checks" and audits on captured data to ensure absolute accuracy before it is used for planning or reporting.
• Inventory Tracking:
  Capture and maintain real-time data regarding raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods to prevent shortages and excess.

• Performance Visualisation:
  Build, update, and maintain functional dashboards (using Excel or Power BI) that track key metrics.
• Stakeholder Reporting:
  Prepare clear visual reports for production meetings, helping stakeholders quickly identify trends and operational bottlenecks.
• Automation of Reporting:
  Streamline existing manual reporting processes to ensure data is updated with minimal delay.

• Production Scheduling Support:
  Work closely with the Master Production Scheduler (MPS) to align daily production schedules with available labor and machine capacity.
• Scenario Modelling:
  Help simulate what-if scenarios (e.g., the impact of a machine breakdown or an urgent order) to help the team pivot quickly.
• Resource Allocation:
  Monitor resource constraints and provide data-backed recommendations on how to best distribute personnel and equipment to meet targets.

• Bottleneck Identification:
  Use data captured from the floor to pinpoint specific areas where production is slowing down and propose immediate solutions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  
  Act as the data bridge between the planning office and the production floor, ensuring communication is based on accurate facts.

• Process Mapping:
  Document current manual planning workflows to identify candidates for AI-driven automation.
• Continuous Learning:
  Proactively up-skill in AI tools and frameworks to transition traditional planning into "intelligent" planning.

• Lead and Assist in the deployment of intelligent AI agents designed to automate routine data entry and predictive scheduling.
• Train internal stakeholders to use AI agents and provide support in challenges and issues.

Essential Skills

• Education:
  
  A recently completed Bachelor’s/ Master’s degree in supply chain management, Industrial Engineering, Business Analytics, or a related quantitative field.
• Advanced Data Manipulation:
  High proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including the use of advanced formulas (XLOOKUP, Index/Match), Pivot Tables, and Power Query for data cleansing.
• AI & Automation Interest:
  Familiarity with the concept of AI agents and how they can be applied to supply chain efficiency.
• Data Visualisation:
  Proven ability to build and manage functional dashboards (Excel or Power BI) that translate raw data into clear operational insights.
• Data Accuracy & Auditing: A meticulous approach to data capture, with the ability to identify discrepancies and ensure high integrity in inventory and production records.
• Analytical Thinking:
  Strong competency in capacity planning and resource management logic (balancing labor, machinery, and time constraints).
• Collaborative Problem-Solving:
  Ability to work effectively on a fast-paced production floor and communicate clearly with the Master Production Scheduler and other stakeholders.
• Innate Curiosity: A proactive "investigative" mindset with a strong desire to understand the root causes of operational challenges.

Desirable Skills

• Programming Foundations:
  Basic knowledge of Python or SQL, or a demonstrated interest in learning these to automate manual data tasks.
• Process Mapping:
  Experience in documenting workflows and identifying which points are suitable for automation.
• Inventory Modelling:
  Previous exposure to inventory optimisation techniques (e.g., Safety Stock calculations or EOQ modelling) during academic projects or internships.
• Lean/Six Sigma:
  Foundational understanding of Lean…