Material Planner

Job Summary:

The Material Planner is responsible for planning, monitoring, and ensuring the timely availability of farm inputs and equipment based on sales forecasts, historical data, seasonality,

and market demand. The role requires proactive inventory management, supplier coordination,

and close alignment with both operations and commercial teams to avoid stock-outs or

overstocking and to optimize working capital.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Material Planning & Forecasting

• Analyze sales forecasts and historical consumption to determine material requirements.
• Create and maintain material requirement plans (MRP) for both short-term and long-term needs.
• Align planning with seasonal cycles and promotional campaigns.

2. Inventory Management

• Maintain optimal inventory levels based on reorder points and safety stock calculations.
• Monitor slow-moving and aging stocks; recommend actions for liquidation or reallocation.
• Coordinate with the warehouse for accurate stock data and physical inventory validations.

3. Coordination with Procurement & Importation

• Provide material forecasts and order triggers to the Procurement and Importation Team.
• Track expected delivery schedules and monitor order status against plan.

4. Supply Chain Optimization

• Identify bottlenecks, lead time issues, and delays in supply; recommend mitigation strategies.
• Work closely with sales and operations to validate pipeline orders and align supply with demand.

5. System & Reporting

• Maintain planning data in ERP or inventory management systems. (SSMS, QB, etc.)
• Prepare regular reports on inventory turnover, forecast accuracy, and supply gaps.
• Participate in S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning) meetings.

6. Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure that planning documents are updated, traceable, and comply with company procedures and audit standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in materials planning or supply chain, preferably in agriculture or FMCG.
• Strong analytical and forecasting skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and advanced Excel.
• Knowledge of importation processes and seasonality in the agricultural sector is a plus.
• Excellent coordination, communication, and problem-solving skills.