- Lead short‑, medium‑, and long‑term production planning based on sales forecasts, confirmed orders, and inventory targets
- Develop capacity plans aligned with labor, equipment, and tooling availability
- Balance demand vs. capacity and recommend corrective actions (overtime, subcontracting, line balancing, etc.)
- Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Supply Chain to translate demand forecasts into executable production plans
- Participate in S&OP / IBP cycles, providing manufacturing feasibility and capacity insights
- Ensure optimal inventory levels (RM, WIP, FG) to support service levels and cash flow targets
- Oversee master production schedules (MPS) and detailed line scheduling
- Monitor production adherence and adjust plans in response to disruptions (machine breakdowns, material shortages, demand changes)
- Ensure smooth coordination between planning, production, procurement, and logistics
- Implement planning best practices (Lean, JIT, TOC, TPM, APS tools)
- Drive improvements in schedule adherence, throughput, and lead time reduction
- Standardize planning processes across plants or product categories
- Lead effective use of ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Netsuite)
- Ensure data accuracy for BOMs, routings, lead times, and capacities
- Develop dashboards and KPIs for planning performance and executive reporting
- Lead and develop the Manufacturing Planning team
- Set clear goals, coach planners, and build succession capability
- Promote cross‑functional collaboration and accountability
- Ensure production planning complies with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements
- Identify risks related to capacity constraints, supply disruptions, and demand volatility
Qualifications & Experience
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or related field
- Master's degree or MBA is an advantage
Experience
- 10–15+ years in manufacturing planning, production planning, or operations
- At least 5 years in a managerial or leadership role
- Experience in multi‑plant or complex manufacturing environments preferred (FMCG, food, pharma, packaging, automotive, electronics, etc.)
Technical & Functional Skills
- Strong expertise in MRP/MRP II, S&OP, capacity planning
- Advanced Excel / data analytics skills
- Hands‑on experience with ERP systems (SAP PP highly preferred)
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies
- Strategic and analytical thinking
- Strong decision‑making under pressure
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Results‑driven with strong execution capability
- Leadership, coaching, and change management skills
