Full job description

A fast-paced food manufacturing business is looking for a Production Planner to join its planning team. Operating in a short shelf-life environment, this role is critical to ensuring customer demand is fulfilled whilst minimising waste, managing inventory effectively, and maximising factory efficiency.






Working closely with Demand Planning, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Procurement and Commercial teams, you’ll create and maintain achievable production plans that balance service, freshness, capacity and cost.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planner who thrives in a dynamic environment where priorities can change quickly and where accurate planning has a direct impact on customer satisfaction and profitability.
Key Responsibilities*Develop daily and weekly production plans across multiple product lines.
*Balance customer demand, production capacity, raw material availability and shelf-life constraints.
*Monitor service levels, stock positions and manufacturing performance to identify risks and opportunities.
*React quickly to demand fluctuations, production issues and supply challenges.
*Work closely with Operations to optimise line utilisation and labour requirements.
*Manage inventory levels to minimise waste and obsolescence.
*Support the S&OP/short-term planning process by providing accurate planning data and insights.
*Analyse planning performance and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
*Liaise with Procurement to ensure material availability aligns with production requirements.
*Ensure planning parameters and system data remain accurate and up to date.
About You*Previous experience in a Production Planning, Supply Planning or Scheduling role within food manufacturing or another short shelf-life environment.
*Strong understanding of the challenges associated with fresh, chilled or perishable products.
*Experience balancing service levels, waste reduction and manufacturing efficiency.
*Confident working with ERP/MRP systems and advanced Excel.
*Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
*Ability to make decisions quickly in a fast-moving operational environment.
*Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders across multiple functions.
Desirable*Experience within chilled food, bakery, dairy, fresh produce, ready meals or other FMCG manufacturing environments.
*Knowledge of S&OP, capacity planning and inventory management principles.
*Continuous improvement experience.
What’s on Offer*Opportunity to join a growing and successful manufacturing business.
*Fast-paced, collaborative working environment.
*Clear progression opportunities within Supply Chain and Operations.
*Competitive salary and benefits package.
To apply for the role please send your CV to


Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates