Production Planner

Role Overview

The Production Planner will oversee the entire production cycle from placing purchase orders to the delivery of finished products. This role requires close collaboration with Product Development, Buying, Logistics, and external manufacturers to align production with seasonal timelines, quality benchmarks, and company goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Issue purchase orders to suppliers according to production demands and seasonal deadlines.
• Assist the Production Manager in organizing and executing seasonal production tasks.
• Keep production schedules current, ensuring all manufacturing milestones are met.
• Manage production tickets and planning specifically for the tie factory.
• Coordinate procurement of production trims, such as labels and branded items, in consultation with internal departments.
• Serve as the main communication contact for manufacturers and suppliers concerning production issues.
• Develop and sustain positive supplier relationships to enable smooth communication and prompt issue resolution.
• Monitor supplier performance, escalate potential risks, and suggest corrective actions to avoid production delays.
• Track progress at all manufacturing locations to confirm timely delivery, compliance with specifications, and quality standards.
• Proactively identify and address issues that impact production timelines, quality, costs, or deliveries.
• Update internal stakeholders on production status, risks, and delays.
• Arrange finished goods transportation with logistics partners like DHL and Ziegler, managing freight and shipment details.
• Ensure accuracy of shipment documents and delivery schedules aligned with warehouse and company needs.
• Communicate with freight carriers and suppliers to monitor shipments and resolve transport issues.
• Maintain precise records of production, purchase orders, and supplier data in company systems.
• Generate and update reports, trackers, and critical path documentation for production activities.
• Conduct periodic visits to mills, factories, and suppliers across the UK and Europe to monitor production progress, reinforce supplier partnerships, execute quality reviews, and support on-time seasonal deliveries.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Product Development, Buying, Warehouse, Logistics, and Merchandising to secure successful and timely product delivery.

Experience & Knowledge

• Prior involvement in production planning, coordination, or management within fashion, apparel, or luxury goods sectors.
• Experience managing relations with suppliers and coordinating production across several manufacturing sites.
• Familiarity with working alongside international manufacturers and logistics providers.
• Strong grasp of garment manufacturing workflows and managing critical paths.
• Proficient use of ERP or production management software and Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
• Comprehensive knowledge of garment construction, production processes, and quality criteria.
• Understanding of supplier management, production planning, and inventory control.
• Awareness of import/export logistics and freight handling.
• Well-versed in purchase order management and production scheduling.
• Exceptional organizational skills with an ability to juggle multiple production plans simultaneously.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in execution.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to manage priorities under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within luxury fashion or high-end apparel brands.
• Knowledge of ERP/PLM systems such as Zedonk.
• Experience facilitating production and supplier relationships overseas.
• Understanding of customs processes and international shipping documentation.