Johannesburg: Master Planner

Role Purpose The Master Planner will be responsible for the development, governance, and continuous improvement of the consolidated Master Production Schedule (MPS) across all divisions. The role operates at a strategic level (312 month planning horizon) and ensures alignment between forecast demand, production capacity, material availability, and inventory strategy. This function supports divisional planners by providing a structured and capacity-aligned planning framework, enabling improved execution stability. Key Responsibilities Consolidated Master Production Scheduling – Develop and maintain the integrated Master Production Schedule across Mining & Construction, Rail, and Automotive divisions. – Translate sales forecasts and demand inputs into an aggregate production plan. – Provide forward visibility of supply and capacity risks. – Facilitate structured planning alignment reviews across divisions. Capacity & Resource Planning – Conduct Rough Cut Capacity Planning (RCCP) at an aggregate level. – Identify shared resource constraints across divisions. – Recommend balancing strategies to mitigate bottlenecks. Forecast & Inventory Strategy – Establish and maintain safety stock policies aligned to service level targets. – Drive inventory optimisation initiatives. – Monitor and manage slow-moving and excess inventory risk. – Align planning outputs to working capital objectives. ERP & Planning System Optimisation – Lead the implementation and optimisation of Syspros MPS and Inventory Optimisation modules. – Ensure integrity of MRP parameters (lead times, lot sizes, safety stock, reorder policies). – Improve automation and planning discipline within the system. – Strengthen master data governance. Strategic Planning Support – Support the Supply Chain Manager in S&OP-style planning reviews. – Provide structured planning insights to leadership. – Identify systemic planning risks before they impact operations. Minimum Requirements Degree or Diploma in Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent. 56 years experience in production planning, MRP, and MPS planning, preferably within a manufacturing environment. ERP experience (Syspro advantageous). Strong analytical and systems thinking capability essential Expected Business Outcomes: – Improved planning stability across divisions – Enhanced capacity alignment – Reduced reactive scheduling and firefighting – Improved inventory control and working capital performance – Greater visibility of medium- to long-term supply risks – Stronger integration between divisions