Planning Manager

Planning Manager, Manufacturing

Sheffield

Drive Production Excellence. Shape Business Performance.

Due to continued growth and increasing customer demand, we are looking to appoint an experienced Planning Manager to lead and develop our Production Planning function.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a planning professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoys influencing business performance through effective production planning, forecasting, and cross-functional collaboration.

Reporting directly to the Operations Manager, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring customer requirements are met through robust planning processes, efficient resource utilisation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The Role

As Planning Manager, you will take ownership of the Master Production Schedule, leading planning activities across the business and ensuring alignment between customer demand, production capability, inventory management, and commercial objectives.

You will work closely with Production, Supply Chain, Commercial and Quality teams to deliver operational excellence whilst developing and leading a small planning team.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain and manage the Master Production Schedule

• Deliver short and long-term production forecasts to support business objectives

• Lead the Sales, Inventory, Operations & Planning (SIOP) process

• Monitor production performance and analyse planning data to drive informed decision-making

• Manage Work in Progress (WIP) and inventory control activities

• Establish, monitor and report on Planning and Production KPIs

• Coordinate production priorities and schedule changes across departments

• Identify and implement continuous improvement and cost-saving initiatives

• Support the delivery of on-time customer performance and operational efficiency

• Manage slow-moving inventory and customer arrears within production plans

• Lead, develop and mentor the Production Planning Coordinator

• Support recruitment, performance management, training and succession planning activities within the department

About You

We're looking for a highly organised and analytical planning professional who can balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational delivery.

You will be comfortable working under pressure, managing competing priorities, and building strong relationships across all levels of the organisation.

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in Production Planning within a manufacturing environment

• Experience leading or participating in SIOP processes

• Strong understanding of KPI management and performance reporting

• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills

• Experience using ERP, planning and scheduling systems

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment

• High attention to detail and a proactive approach to continuous improvement

Desirable

• Experience with in an Aerospace manufacturing environment

• CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management) qualification

• Degree qualified in a relevant discipline

What We're Looking For

• A self-motivated and driven individual

• Strong leadership and people management skills

• Resilient, accountable and professional in approach

• Innovative and commercially aware mindset

• Ability to influence positive change across the business

• Commitment to continuous personal and professional development

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to become a key member of a growing organisation where planning plays a critical role in operational success. You'll have the chance to shape processes, influence business performance, develop your team, and contribute directly to the company's ongoing growth and success.