The Planner is responsible for supporting the execution of ripening and production plans to ensure customer demand is delivered efficiently and on time. Working closely with the Senior Planner, Operations, Logistics, and Procurement teams, the Planner will coordinate stock availability, ripening schedules, production requirements, and inbound transport movements to ensure operational continuity and service delivery. 

The role is critical in maintaining accurate planning information, ensuring timely raw material supply, and supporting operational efficiency through proactive planning and communication. 

People 

• Work collaboratively with Operations, Demand & Supply , Logistics, Sourcing, Quality, and Commercial teams to support planning execution.  

• Build effective working relationships across departments to ensure alignment and quick resolution of issues.  

• Support a positive and proactive team culture within the Planning function.  

• Participate in team meetings, planning reviews, and continuous improvement activities.  

Safety 

• Ensure planning activities support safe and achievable operational schedules.  

• Consider operational constraints, labour availability, and site limitations when executing plans.  

• Escalate risks where planning requirements may impact safe operations.  

• Support adherence to site health and safety procedures through effective communication and planning coordination.  

Quality 

• Ensure plans support customer quality requirements and product integrity.  

• Maintain accurate planning and stock data to ensure traceability and compliance.  

• Support effective stock rotation and product age management.  

• Work closely with Quality and Operations teams to minimise quality risks linked to planning decisions.  

Cost 

• Support efficient use of ripening rooms, labour, transport, and operational resources.  

• Minimise waste, unnecessary transport costs, and operational inefficiencies through accurate planning and coordination.  

• Support adherence to stock policies and inventory targets.  

• Identify opportunities for planning and logistics process improvements.  

Delivery 

• Execute daily and weekly ripening and production plans in line with customer demand and operational requirements.  

• Coordinate inbound raw material requirements to ensure availability aligns with operational plans.  

• Book transport for inbound raw material support production and ripening schedules.  

• Liaise with transport providers, warehouses, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely deliveries.  

• Book outbound vehicles based on customer order profiles  

• Maintain accurate planning system data, including stock movements, inbound schedules, and planning updates.  

• Support stock reconciliation and inventory accuracy processes ( Tray De hires )  

• Communicate planning changes, shortages, or risks to relevant stakeholders in a timely manner.  

• Support the achievement of customer service targets and OTIF performance.  

• Assist in providing planning inputs into daily operational reviews and S&OE processes. 

Requirements

• Experience within Planning, Logistics, Supply Chain, or FMCG operations.  
• Strong organisational and coordination skills.  
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.  
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.  
• Experience using ERP/MRP or planning systems.  
• Competent Microsoft Excel skills.  
• Attention to detail and strong problem-solving ability.  

Desirable 

• Experience within fresh produce, food manufacturing, or temperature-controlled supply chains.  
• Transport booking or logistics coordination experience.  
• Knowledge of stock control and inventory management processes.  
• Understanding of S&OE or operational planning processes.  

Benefits

• 20 days holiday
• Free on-site parking
• Company pension plan
• Medicash plan
• Life Insurance

Salary - £35,000 per annum

Please note that this position does not have a specific closing date. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible as we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and the advert may be removed at any time.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family or parental status, national origin, or veteran, neurodiversity or disability status.