Planning Manager

A growing custom manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Production Planning Manager to lead production planning, scheduling, and order management functions. This individual will be responsible for establishing and maintaining the master production schedule, optimizing plant capacity, improving inventory performance, and ensuring customer delivery commitments are achieved. This leadership role oversees planning and order management personnel while partnering closely with manufacturing, supply chain, engineering, sales, accounting, and plant leadership teams. The ideal candidate will possess strong production planning expertise, Lean Manufacturing knowledge, and the ability to make data-driven decisions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Key Responsibilities Production Planning & Scheduling Create and maintain the master production schedule based on customer demand, forecasts, and production requirements. Balance plant capacity, labor resources, inventory levels, and customer delivery expectations. Monitor critical work center loads and proactively identify capacity constraints. Coordinate production priorities to maximize customer service and on-time delivery performance. Ensure efficient utilization of plant resources and outsourced manufacturing capacity. Lead daily production planning meetings and drive follow-up actions. Inventory & Materials Management Develop strategies to improve inventory turns while supporting customer demand. Identify and communicate material shortages that may impact production schedules. Partner with supply chain and purchasing teams on replenishment strategies. Support consignment, JIT, vendor-managed inventory, Kanban, and other inventory programs. Manage internal Kanban systems and continuously evaluate inventory stocking strategies. Operational Excellence Apply Lean Manufacturing principles throughout production planning processes. Support continuous improvement initiatives that improve efficiency, responsiveness, and customer service. Develop reporting tools and analytics to support operational decision-making. Assist with implementation of shop floor controls and inventory accuracy initiatives. Facilitate Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) and operational review meetings. Cross-Functional Leadership Partner with manufacturing, engineering, sales, and supply chain teams to support operational objectives. Coordinate production and materials transfers between facilities when required. Support engineering change implementation and production transitions. Provide coaching, leadership, and development for planning and order management personnel. Act as a key communication point between operations and business functions. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred. 5+ years of manufacturing planning, production scheduling, supply chain, or operations experience. Leadership experience managing planning, scheduling, or order management personnel. Strong understanding of ERP/MRP systems and production planning methodologies. Experience developing and maintaining master production schedules within a manufacturing environment. Proven ability to balance customer demand, production capacity, inventory levels, and operational priorities. Advanced analytical skills and ability to make data-driven decisions. Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Preferred Qualifications MBA or advanced business education. Experience in custom manufacturing, metal fabrication, industrial manufacturing, or engineered products environments. Lean Manufacturing experience and continuous improvement leadership. Advanced ERP, MRP, forecasting, and operational planning expertise. Ability to perform effectively in fast-paced and rapidly changing business environments. Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence across multiple functional areas. Excellent conflict resolution and problem-solving capabilities. Customer-focused mindset with strong commitment to service and operational excellence. Proven planning, organizational, and prioritization skills. Ability to lead through ambiguity while maintaining operational stability. Why Consider This Opportunity? High-impact leadership role with direct influence on plant performance. Opportunity to drive production planning strategy and operational improvements. Exposure to leadership across manufacturing, engineering, sales, and supply chain functions. Strong visibility within the organization and opportunity for career growth. Opportunity to lead Lean initiatives and improve overall operational effectiveness. Collaborative manufacturing environment with significant influence on customer service, inventory performance, and production efficiency. #J-18808-Ljbffr LHH