Production Planning Assistant

Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, with facilities in Croydon, UK; Walton, Kentucky and Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA; Brzeg, Poland; and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT). We produce lightweight foams for a wide range of markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive, and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and supplies advanced insulation systems. The Company is on a strong growth trajectory, with significant revenue and profitability increases in recent years and ambitious plans for the future. About the

Role:

Working in conjunction with the Inventory and Manufacturing Planning Manager, the Production Planning Assistant is responsible for developing, coordinating, and executing production schedules that ensure efficient workflow, optimal resource utilization, and on time delivery of products. This role serves as a critical link between operations, procurement, engineering, and customer service to balance demand, capacity, and material availability.

Role Responsibilities:

• Create and maintain production schedules that align with customer demand, inventory targets, and manufacturing capacity.
• Analyze sales forecasts, customer orders, and historical data to determine production requirements.
• Monitor work-in-progress, identify bottlenecks, and adjust schedules to maintain workflow and meet deadlines.
• Communicate schedule changes to production supervisors, quality, logistics, and customer service teams.
• Optimize production sequencing to reduce changeovers, downtime, and waste.
• Track and report key planning metrics, including schedule adherence, capacity utilization, and inventory levels.
• Resolve scheduling conflicts and proactively address risks that could impact delivery commitments.
• Maintain accurate data in ERP/MRP systems and ensure planning parameters are up to date. What you'll need:
• Related bachelor's degree Operations, or related field (preferred).
• Minimum of 1 year experience in production planning, scheduling, and material control within a manufacturing environment.
• Prior procurement and logistics experience.
• Proficiency with ERP systems; Microsoft AX a real plus!
• Strong planning, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across all levels of the organization.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under tight deadlines.
• Lean Manufacturing and ISO experience are a plus. What we're looking for?
• Strong business acumen with a broad understanding of customer experience and best practices.
• Exceptional interpersonal verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong proven ability to manage multiple responsibilities and priorities.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Power BI.
• ERP experience required.
• Ability to travel: as required; up to 5-10% domestic and international travel required for supplier visits, global coordination, and customer support.
• Full time; occasionally increased hours for project work. Why Join Us? At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development. Our Values Courage
• The courage to take bold action to ensure that we succeed in tackling our challenges and opportunities. Impact
• Dedicated to making a significant and positive impact in everything we do. Respect
• Cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and collaboration is encouraged.

Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees