Lead Production Planner - Remote

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of specialized industrial components, and they are actively seeking a Lead Production Planner to join their fully remote operations team. In this critical role, you will be responsible for developing and overseeing comprehensive production schedules across multiple manufacturing sites, ensuring optimal resource allocation, timely delivery, and cost efficiency. As a remote team member, you will leverage advanced planning software and analytical skills to drive strategic production decisions. This position requires a proactive individual with a keen eye for detail, strong leadership capabilities, and a proven track record in production planning and supply chain management. We are looking for a candidate who thrives in a virtual environment and can effectively communicate and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.

Join us and contribute to shaping the future of manufacturing planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, manage, and optimize production plans and schedules to meet demand forecasts and customer requirements.
• Analyze production capacity, material availability, and labor resources to ensure realistic and achievable schedules.
• Collaborate closely with sales, procurement, and operations teams to align production plans with business objectives.
• Identify potential bottlenecks and proactively implement solutions to minimize production disruptions.
• Utilize advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software to create, maintain, and update production schedules.
• Monitor production progress against schedules, reporting on key performance indicators (KPIs) and variances.
• Lead and mentor junior planning staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing planning processes and system efficiency.
• Prepare detailed reports on production status, inventory levels, and forecast accuracy for senior management.
• Ensure effective communication of schedule changes and potential impacts to relevant departments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or operations within a manufacturing setting.
• Extensive experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) systems (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle ASCP, Kinaxis).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials management, and inventory control.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to interpret complex data.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders remotely.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other relevant software.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Must possess a stable internet connection and a suitable remote work environment.

Benefits

• Annual salary ranging from R.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• A fully remote work setup, promoting excellent work-life balance.
• Access to online training resources and certifications.
• Performance-based incentives.
• Supportive team culture focused on remote collaboration.