Production Planning Manager

Description: JOB SUMMARY The Production Planning Manager is responsible for overseeing Gel-Pak’s production planning and scheduling activities ensuring timely and efficient manufacturing operations.
The incumbent’s primary focus is to optimize resource allocation, manage inventory levels, and coordinate cross functionally to meet production targets and customer demands.
Using data-driven insights, the incumbent will develop and maintain production schedules, identify bottlenecks, and implement strategies for process improvement.
The Production Planning Manager will collaborate closely with procurement, logistics, and production teams to streamline workflows, minimize lead times, and enhance overall operational effectiveness.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Develop production schedules and prioritize tasks based on demand, available resources, capacity constraints, and lead times.
Ensure that schedules are realistic and achievable while meeting customer delivery requirements.
Collaborate with the Sales department to facilitate the "sales forecast along with product mix" activity, enabling the Manufacturing Organization to accurately estimate production requirements and plan effectively.
Review inventory levels of raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods, while collaborating with the Materials department to address inventory discrepancies ensuring the achievement of on-time deliveries.
Develop and manage production schedules for new product introduction (NPI) projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery of prototypes and production samples while resolving scheduling conflicts, and optimizing resource utilization efficiencies.
Collaborate with contract manufacturers to establish aligned production schedules, monitor progress, identify risks, and provide regular updates to stakeholders.
Continuously analyze production processes and identify opportunities for improvement.
Implement lean manufacturing principles, process optimization techniques, and automation where applicable to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
Coordinate with various departments, including operations, procurement, and facilities, to allocate resources effectively, ensuring optimal production efficiency through planning for equipment and machinery availability.
Maintain robust communication channels with internal stakeholders to address production challenges, resolve issues, and ensure smooth operations.
Foster a culture of continuous improvement by promoting employee involvement, encouraging suggestions for process enhancements, and implementing best practices.
Stay updated on industry trends and technological advancements that can enhance production planning and execution.
Utilize production planning and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to streamline processes, manage data, and generate reports.
Demonstrate expertise with relevant software tools and technologies to optimize production planning activities.
Manages special projects/programs, as assigned to completion, assesses results, and provides feedback to key stakeholders.
Performs other duties or responsibilities over the course of employment.
ACCOUNTABILTIES Supervisory Direct Reports: N/A Indirect Reports: N/A Fiscal Not Applicable Requirements: ESSENTIAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS Bachelor's degree in production management, engineering, or relevant field.
3+ years of experience in a manufacturing production environment.
Demonstrable knowledge of production management.
Demonstrable knowledge with manufacturing modules of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, EPICOR preferred.
Strong computer aptitude inclusive of MS Word, Excel, Outlook.
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control, and Lean Six Sigma principles.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets and generate actionable insights.
Demonstrable leadership and project management experience.
Ability to develop and implement production plans.
This description portrays in general terms the type and levels of work performed and is not intended to be all-inclusive or represent specific duties of any one incumbent.
The knowledge, skills, and abilities may be acquired through a combination of formal schooling, self-education, prior experience, or on-the-job training.