Material Planner

Material Planner needed for our Stoke on Trent based client.

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Material Planner to join a busy manufacturing business. This is a key role within the supply chain team, ensuring materials are available at the right time, in the right quantity and at the right cost to meet production requirements.

Working closely with Production Planning, Operations and suppliers, you will use MRP/ERP systems to manage material requirements, raise purchase orders, monitor supplier performance and help maintain continuity of supply.

Key Responsibilities

• Raise, amend and manage purchase orders accurately and efficiently.

• Review MRP recommendations and convert demand into purchase orders.

• Proactively chase suppliers and manage outstanding orders and delivery dates.

• Ensure raw materials are available to meet production schedules.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.

• Maintain accurate supplier, purchasing and master data within the ERP/MRP system.

• Monitor supplier performance and assist with supplier reviews and scorecards.

• Support the development and reporting of supplier and departmental KPIs.

• Identify potential cost-saving and purchasing improvement opportunities.

• Assist with sourcing and onboarding new suppliers where required.

• Support NPI, engineering changes and technical projects.

• Maintain accurate supplier records and contact information.

• Support month-end reporting and purchase ledger reconciliation activities.

• Work closely with Production Planning and Operations to resolve material shortages and supply issues.

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives across purchasing and supply chain.

About You

We are looking for someone who is organised, commercially aware and comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

You will ideally have:

• A minimum of 2 years' experience within purchasing, buying, materials planning or a similar supply chain role.

• Previous experience within a manufacturing environment.

• Good working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems.

• Experience raising purchase orders and managing supplier deliveries.

• Strong supplier and relationship management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong attention to detail and good organisational skills.

• Confidence using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook.

• The ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure.

• A proactive approach to problem solving.

• An adaptable and flexible approach, with the ability to work effectively within a growing SME environment.

The Opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Material Planner, Buyer, Purchasing Coordinator or Materials Controller looking to join a fast-paced manufacturing business where you can have a direct impact on supplier performance, material availability and overall production efficiency.

Apply today if you have experience within purchasing/material planning and are looking for your next opportunity within manufacturing.