We are looking for a strategic and detail-oriented Inventory Planning Manager to join our team at our injectable products manufacturing site. This role is crucial for optimizing inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing costs. You will be responsible for production planning, ensuring efficient resource use, and maximizing operational efficiency. You will forecast inventory needs, analyze product demand data, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure streamlined stock management and production scheduling. Your contributions will drive continuous improvements to enhance production efficiency and support the overall success of our manufacturing operations.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in production planning, inventory management, demand forecasting, and supply chain management, preferably within the manufacturing or pharmaceutical industry.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience managing a team, focusing on operational efficiency, team development, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Proven experience in optimizing production planning processes, improving inventory accuracy, and implementing cost-saving initiatives in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of Lean manufacturing principles, process optimization, and the ability to manage complex production schedules while maintaining effective inventory control.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced data analytics tools to support decision-making and reporting.

Competencies

• Production Planning & Inventory Management: Oversee production planning and inventory management processes to ensure optimal stock levels while minimizing excess stock and stockouts. Collaborate with materials planners to optimize inventory levels.
• Demand Forecasting: Utilize historical data and demand forecasts to develop and adjust production plans, ensuring alignment with inventory needs and business objectives.
• Supply Chain Coordination: Work closely with suppliers, logistics teams, and internal departments to ensure timely replenishment of inventory, aligning with production schedules.
• Order Planning & Scheduling: Plan and schedule purchase orders to maintain optimal stock levels and ensure timely availability of materials, adhering to budget constraints and production timelines.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze key inventory and production metrics, such as turnover rates, lead times, safety stock levels, and demand variability. Generate reports and present insights to management for strategic planning.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements within production planning and inventory management to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
• Collaboration: Work closely with demand planning, production, and operations teams to align inventory strategies with business goals, ensuring efficient planning.
• Management of Subcontractors: Oversee subcontractors for outsourced operations such as packaging and sterilization, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Proficiency in Production Planning and Inventory Systems: Advanced experience with SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite, and strong Excel skills for data analysis.
• Production Planning Expertise: Proven ability to develop and execute production plans to meet demand, optimize resources, and manage inventory effectively.
• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Strong ability to assess production data, identify inefficiencies, and implement improvements for enhanced operational efficiency.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Excellent communication skills for working across teams in production, supply chain, and management to align objectives.
• Adaptability & Time Management: Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and adjust quickly to changes in demand or production capacity.
• Leadership & Team Management: Experience leading production planning teams and driving continuous improvement in production processes.
• Lean Manufacturing Knowledge: Familiarity with Lean principles or other process optimization strategies to improve efficiency and reduce waste.

Desirable Requirements

• APICS Certification: Certification in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a plus.
• Experience: 10+ years of experience in production planning and/or inventory management, ideally within a manufacturing environment for injectable products or pharmaceuticals.
• Industry Knowledge: Previous experience in injectable product manufacturing or the pharmaceutical industry, with a strong understanding of ISO 13485 and relevant regulatory standards.