Material Planner

Job Title: Material Planner

Company Overview:

Equi-Trek Limited is a renowned manufacturer of premium horseboxes and trailers, specializing in designing and producing high-quality equestrian transport solutions. Our company is committed to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction, with a strong reputation for craftsmanship and reliability in the industry.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a diligent and detail-oriented Material Planner to join our supply chain management team at Equi-Trek Limited. The Materials Planner will play a key role in optimising inventory levels, ensuring timely procurement of materials, and supporting our production operations to meet customer demand efficiently.

Responsibilities:

Develop and execute material requirements planning (MRP) to maintain optimal inventory levels while minimising excess and obsolete materials.

Analyse demand forecasts, sales trends, and production schedules to generate accurate material procurement plans.

Collaborate closely with suppliers to negotiate pricing, terms, and lead times, and to ensure on-time delivery of materials.

Coordinate with internal teams including production, purchasing, and sales to prioritise and expedite material orders as needed.

Monitor inventory levels and implement inventory control strategies to prevent shortages or overstock situations.

Evaluate supplier performance and maintain strong relationships to support continuous improvement and cost savings initiatives.

Generate reports and key performance indicators (KPIs) related to materials planning and inventory management.

Participate in cross-functional teams to support new product launches, engineering changes, and process improvements.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field is highly desirable.

Proven experience of 3-4 years in materials planning, inventory management, or procurement within a manufacturing environment would put you at a distinct advantage.

Strong analytical skills with proficiency in using ERP systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external stakeholders.

Detail-oriented mindset with strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks in a dynamic environment.

Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and experience with demand planning and forecasting techniques is preferred.