Planning Manager

Position Overview

We have an exciting opportunity at our North Kingstown, RI facility for a Manufacturing Planning Manager!

This role is designed for a planning leader who wants to be fully embedded in manufacturing operations, not managing schedules from a distance. As Planning Manager, you will own production planning and scheduling in a complex, fast‑moving environment, working closely with operations, supply chain, maintenance, and quality teams to drive execution and respond to real‑time constraints.

This is a 100% on‑site role by design
, offering direct operational influence, visibility, and accountability. For candidates who value hands‑on leadership and real impact, this role provides meaningful ownership and challenge.

Note: Our manufacturing environment includes multi‑step batch processes with raw‑material variability and sequencing constraints.
Batch manufacturing planning experience is strongly preferred
; however, we welcome applicants with strong production planning skills gained in other complex manufacturing environment.

Key responsibilities for this role include:

• Lead the development of short- and long‑term production plans to ensure materials are available according to established schedules.
• Prepare and review a detailed monthly Master Schedule to meet customer requirements while minimizing crossovers and testing whenever possible.
• Optimize SAP/MRP parameters to support current planning strategies effectively.
• Drive inventory control objectives by creating and managing material and production plans to minimize inventory levels. Analyze monthly, quarterly, and year‑end inventory changes and implement necessary actions to meet targets across all inventory categories.
• Develop strong partnerships with internal and external customers to foster continuous improvement activities, enhancing the Global Planning process across all regions.
• Collaborate with Account Managers, Product Managers, and Customer Service Representatives to review forecasts and usage details, taking necessary actions to balance production plans.
• Lead Operations in planning for current and future capacity requirements.
• Oversee the preparation and presentation of Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) activities.
• Manage and direct the Planning department, including setting objectives, professional development, and performance management.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Operations Management, Business, or a related field.
• 8-10 years of experience in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment, including 5+ years of management experience.
• In‑depth knowledge of ERP systems, MRP, and inventory management.
• Strong production planning experience within a manufacturing setting. Experience with batch or process manufacturing planning is strongly preferred due to the sequencing, yield, and raw‑material variability associated with our operations. Candidates with robust planning experience in other complex manufacturing environments are also encouraged to apply. Candidates with planning backgrounds from retail/distribution‑only environments may not find this role aligns with their experience.
• Strong ability to work independently, prioritize key activities, and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross‑functional teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel & PowerPoint, for data analysis and reporting/presenting.
• Experience in demand forecasting and capacity planning.

Preferred Qualifications

• APICS certification
• SAP experience
• Strong project management skills and experience with continuous improvement methodologies
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans
• Experience in Lean Manufacturing principles and practices

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

We value a professional, adaptable, and collaborative work environment. The following competencies are essential for success in any role and reflect our commitment to effective teamwork, problem solving, and workplace communication.

• Resilience –Ability to adapt to workplace challenges, maintain professionalism, and manage…