Production Planner

Job Overview

The Production Planner will oversee detailed planning and scheduling for production, ensuring efficient use of manpower, machinery, and materials to fulfill customer orders. This role involves maintaining the Master Production Schedule (MPS), coordinating with different departments, and guaranteeing timely execution of work orders to support smooth packaging processes.

Primary Responsibilities

• Create daily and weekly production plans in collaboration with Sales and Production teams.
• Track and prioritize job orders based on delivery requirements and resources.
• Keep the Master Production Schedule (MPS) accurate and updated.
• Prepare and distribute necessary documentation such as process flow sheets to the production floor for effective planning and control.
• Develop production plans alongside the production team to meet customer delivery schedules.
• Serve as a liaison between Sales, Customer Service, and Operations to maintain clear communication and adherence to production schedules.
• Coordinate with production to identify capacity limitations and adjust schedules as needed.
• Contribute data and forecasts to support the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process.
• Monitor inventory levels and recommend material replenishment to satisfy production demands.
• Track raw material consumption and ensure use aligns with plans.
• Collaborate with Quality and Production teams to update and maintain Bills of Materials (BOM).
• Manage production data in Oracle ERP, ensuring accurate job postings and master data governance.
• Verify timely and precise recording of machine man-hours and extra work inputs reported by production.
• Analyze production reports, downtime records, and performance trends to inform operational decisions.
• Assist in scheduling machine usage to maximize capacity and plant efficiency.
• Ensure timely planning and production of new product developments, trials, and work orders to optimize performance and reduce delays.
• Maintain proper documentation and traceability of all production records.
• Monitor and report on shift schedules, man-hours, and productivity metrics.
• Ensure strict compliance with Safety, Quality, Food Safety, and Environmental standards per the global QHSE Management System, ISO standards, and local regulations.
• Keep all records up-to-date with full traceability and ensure processes comply with ISO and management procedures.
• Perform any additional tasks assigned by the Line Manager to meet departmental goals.
• Supervise team adherence to planning timelines, document accuracy, and reporting obligations.
• Coach team members on maintaining accurate records of man-hours, equipment usage, and material consumption.
• Manage team performance by setting targets, offering constructive feedback, fostering employee growth, and motivating towards objectives.

Educational Background and Experience

• Possession of a Bachelor's degree or Diploma in engineering, preferably Mechanical or Electrical.
• Five to eight years of applicable experience within a manufacturing environment, ideally in packaging or high-volume production.
• Prior work in production planning, scheduling, or a comparable production or supply chain role.

Specialized Skills and Knowledge

• Understanding of manufacturing processes and machinery capacity constraints.
• Experience with ERP software systems, specifically Oracle ERP.
• Proficient in data analysis and preparing reports.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Familiarity with quality management systems and procedures.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.