Manufacturing Planner

Position description Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Buyer/Planner. This position reports to the Supply Chain Director and will be responsible for buying to overall manufacturing plan. This individual will be accountable for ensuring raw materials and components are available for production according to schedules and customer needs. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced working environment and contribute directly to our company culture and success. The position provides an opportunity to grow and develop as a leader. Responsibilities Analyses the requirements of raw materials and components, including specifications, preferred supplier, and date material is needed to support the production schedule Maintains effective and proper relations with suppliers and their representatives Investigates and/or interviews potential suppliers to determine if they meet the specified requirements Assists team members or management on selecting the appropriate supplier to be used based upon value-cost analysis for material or services Negotiates the cost for the material or services balanced against the optimum quality and schedule needs Assures that the material is delivered on schedule, at the negotiated price, and meets the quality standards of the company Maintains timely control of purchase orders, and other documents to assure accurate retention of records Act as the primary liaison between the operational planning team and other relevant stakeholders to ensure effective implementation, maintenance, and utilization of ERP systems for production planning, scheduling and inventory management. Develop and execute operational plans optimizing workflows and processes to meet operational volumes, projects, and demand to satisfy site and business objectives. Coordinate the replenishment of materials, collaborating with suppliers and internal stakeholders to maintain adequate inventory levels. Monitor and manage inventory levels, ensuring accurate tracking of materials (raw materials and components), and to limit scrap costs. Ensure that all the required and relevant master data, trackers, schedules, etc. are maintained as required Execute purchase orders and placement with suppliers Please note: The above responsibilities are not exhaustive and other similar duties may be required from time to time. Skills and Requirements The following skills and experience are requirements for the position: Exceptional attention to detail and cross-functional communication skills Skilled at building and managing schedules, timelines, and inventory allocation Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to read, write, and edit working documents Experience working on ERP systems Education and Experience Matric / High school diploma or Bachelor’s degree and 2-3+ years of industry experience in lieu of an undergraduate degree Recognition is given to prior learning and practical experience. Application Procedure To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on WMG Letter of motivation (upload where it says cover letter) Resume or Curriculum vitae , highlighting relevant qualifications and experience Applications without a Letter of Motivation will not be considered. Local candidates preferred. If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability for the position in terms of the specified requirements will be requested. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it by Friday, 4 April 2025 . Please note that this position may close earlier if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. *** NO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES PLEASE We are only accepting direct applications for this position. We are not working with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from third-party recruiters will not be considered and will be deemed the property of Watchmaker Genomics *** WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER Watchmaker Genomics is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creating a culturally diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics as protected by applicable law. All applicants will be asked if currently eligible to work in South Africa; and if now or in the future will require visa sponsorship to continue working in South Africa. This position may be subject to pre-employment checks, including driving history check, drug screening and a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. All pre-employment checks will comply with all applicable laws.