Supply Chain Planner

Role overview

The End-to-End Business Unit Planner II serves as the main supply chain point of contact for assigned business units. This role is responsible for making sure raw materials, components, and other supplies are available on time and within budget to support business and client needs. Planning ownership begins with new client intake and continues through the full contract lifecycle.

The planner keeps demand forecasts, bills of material (BOMs), bills of operations/routings (BOOs), and planning settings current so that MRP can run effectively. The role relies on experience and sound judgment to follow established policies while handling day-to-day execution. It also requires strong analytical thinking to work through complex planning issues and a willingness to coach others, maintain SOPs and work instructions, and align documentation with current end-to-end supply chain practices.

Primary responsibilities

• Plan materials needed for business unit operations and client programs; this does not include sourcing new suppliers or negotiating contracts.
• Build business-unit-level demand forecasts aligned with S&OP and both active and pipeline client programs.
• Participate in supply and demand meetings and evaluate material requirements and recommendations for materials management.
• Review MRP purchase proposals in SAP and work with Purchasing and Procurement to address supply constraints, including expediting or de-expediting supplier activity when needed.
• Create and maintain BOMs, BOOs, and planning parameters in MRP/ERP systems.
• Assess material readiness across the product lifecycle, from program start through tech transfer and commercialization.
• Contribute to replenishment rules, planning parameters such as safety stock and lead times, and improvement of material master data.
• Use practical knowledge of materials and sourcing to validate proposed purchase requisitions.
• Translate business-unit requirements and production schedules into material needs and help move materials efficiently through the production cycle.
• Work with business units to develop unconstrained production plans and manage short-term MRP exceptions or constraints.
• Manage inventory to support optimal levels and align with CBM inventory targets and strategies.
• Coordinate with receiving, finance, and suppliers to resolve receiving and invoicing discrepancies.
• Maintain high quality standards across all planning activities in line with CBM quality expectations.
• Track metrics and drive changes or improvements based on the results.
• Resolve a broad range of complex planning issues as they arise.
• Train colleagues on planning tasks and on generating reports in SAP.
• Review SOPs and work instructions to ensure they remain aligned with current processes.
• Support Lean initiatives.
• Support EHS-related activities and initiatives.
• Handle other duties and special projects as assigned.

Education and experience

A bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or a related field, or equivalent relevant work experience, is required. The role calls for at least 3 years of material planning and/or logistics planning experience in a manufacturing environment. Candidates should have experience in supply chain management and inventory control, along with demonstrated proficiency in MRP/ERP systems; SAP is preferred.

APICS certification such as CPIM or CSCP is preferred. Prior experience in CGT, biotech, life sciences, pharmaceuticals, or medical devices is also preferred. A master’s degree or MBA is an added advantage.

Required capabilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service abilities.
• Strong organization, time management, and attention to detail.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines consistently.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize work and delegate when appropriate.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, sometimes stressful environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
• Working knowledge of Lean principles.
• Clear understanding of planning processes and the ability to explain them to others.

Key competencies

• Stays composed and effective during uncertainty or when the path forward is unclear.
• Thinks well in ambiguous situations and keeps momentum moving.
• Weighs risks and benefits when making difficult decisions.
• Adapts quickly to change.
• Distinguishes between high- and low-priority work and focuses on business needs.
• Identifies process improvement opportunities and takes initiative to implement change.
• Approaches challenging issues with confidence and optimism.
• Delivers consistent results and holds self accountable under pressure.
• Promotes collaboration and open communication across teams and stakeholders.
• Supports teammates proactively when needed.

Physical requirements

• Extended periods of desk-based work and computer use are required.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds at times.