Supply Chain Planner

Supply Chain Planner

As a key member of the Planning Team, the Production Planner/Scheduler is responsible for developing and executing short-, mid-, and long-term production and purchasing plans to ensure reliable, cost-effective, and compliant product supply. This role supports manufacturing operations by managing material availability, production scheduling, and inventory control, while collaborating with cross-functional teams including Procurement, Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, and Distribution. The ideal candidate will thrive in both established and startup environments, demonstrating flexibility, innovation, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Scheduling

Develop and maintain production and packaging schedules for equipment, instruments, reagents, BOM items, and consumables.

Analyze MRP data to ensure production and packaging levels align with sales forecasts and inventory targets.

Prepare and manage short- and long-term purchasing plans (6 -24 months).

Monitor and adjust safety stock levels and inventory models to optimize material flow.

Procurement & Inventory Management

Initiate and approve purchase orders; manage vendor relationships and supply risks.

Maintain inventory levels within site objectives and lead disposition of distressed inventory.

Collaborate with Global Procurement and Sourcing to ensure continuity of supply.

Support material creation, extension and data changes within SAP.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, and Finance to ensure BOM accuracy, timely material release, and cost-effective operations.

Support new product introductions, engineering changes, and site transfer initiatives.

Act as liaison between internal teams and external suppliers to align on production and packaging quality standards.

Process Improvement & Compliance

Utilize Lean, Right First Time (RFT), and Operational Excellence methodologies to improve processes.

Ensure compliance with GMP, regulatory requirements, and company policies.

Maintain accurate master data in SAP and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.

Experience

Minimum 5 years of experience in supply chain, production planning, or materials management.

Experience in biotech or pharmaceutical manufacturing preferred.

Technical Skills

Proficiency in SAP, SAP S4HANA (APO-SNP, PP/DS, ECC), Ariba, and Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).

Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

APICS certification (CPIM) preferred.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Primarily office-based with occasional work on the production floor.

May require use of PPE (e.g., safety shoes, eye protection).

Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, or holidays as needed.