Master Production Scheduler
Location: Fareham, Hampshire (South East England)
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and analytical Master Production Scheduler to play a pivotal role in a complex, highly regulated manufacturing environment. This newly created position offers an exciting opportunity to establish and lead the Master Production Scheduling function, bringing structure, visibility, and long-term planning discipline to production operations.
Working closely with Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Quality teams, you will be responsible for translating customer demand into realistic and achievable production plans. Your work will directly influence delivery performance, operational efficiency, cost control, and customer satisfaction.
This role is ideal for a planning professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoys solving complex scheduling challenges involving long lead times, multi-level bills of materials, and constrained resources.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, maintain, and own the Master Production Schedule (MPS).
- Convert demand forecasts and customer requirements into achievable production plans.
- Balance production demand against available capacity and resources.
- Support Capacity Requirements Planning (CRP) and Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) processes.
- Monitor and manage schedule adherence, identifying risks and implementing corrective actions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure production plans align with operational capabilities.
- Analyse planning data and performance metrics to drive continuous improvement.
- Maintain accuracy of planning parameters, bills of materials, routings, and lead times within ERP systems.
- Provide scenario modelling and planning insights to support business decision-making.
Essential Requirements
Qualifications
- Degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or a related discipline.
- APICS CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management) or equivalent professional certification, or a commitment to achieve this within 12 months of appointment.
Technical Skills & Experience
- Strong experience working with ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Infor LN/M3, or similar.
- Demonstrable knowledge of:
- Master Production Scheduling (MPS)
- Demand Management
- Capacity Requirements Planning (CRP)
- Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP)
- Strong understanding of:
- Bills of Materials (BOMs)
- Manufacturing routings
- Lead times
- Manufacturing work orders
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and scenario modelling.
- Competent user of Microsoft Office applications and Power BI.
Industry Experience
- Minimum of 3–5 years’ experience in a Production Scheduler, Master Scheduler, Planning Analyst, or similar role.
- Experience within aerospace, defence, automotive, or another highly regulated manufacturing environment.
- Knowledge of quality and regulatory frameworks such as AS9100, ITAR, or Export Control requirements.
Personal Attributes
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Excellent attention to detail and data accuracy.
- Effective organisational and prioritisation skills.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively across multiple departments and functions.
- Proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
Benefits
We believe in supporting our employees both professionally and personally. Our benefits package includes:
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Additional holiday entitlement at key service milestones
- Flexible working arrangements and flexitime opportunities
- Early finish on Fridays (role dependent)
- Free onsite parking
- Subsidised canteen and barista coffee facilities
- Bike storage and shower facilities
- 7 employer pension contribution from day one
- Health Cash Plan following probation
- Enhanced family-friendly policies
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Share purchase scheme
- Annual bonus opportunity of up to 5
- Company sick pay
- Life assurance and healthcare benefits
- Cycle to Work and electric vehicle salary sacrifice schemes
- Retail discounts and wellbeing benefits
- Training, development, and career progression opportunities
- Sustainability, volunteering, and employee network initiatives
Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and encourage individuals to apply even if they do not meet every requirement listed. We are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process.
Apply Today
If you are an experienced production planning professional looking for an opportunity to make a significant impact within a world-class manufacturing environment, we would love to hear from you. Join us and help shape the future of operational excellence