Job Title: Lead Planner, Production Planning I
Job location: Ras Al Khair, Saudi Arabia
Working hours: 8 hours
Type of work: Full time
Job post start date: 4/23/2026
Job post end date: 5/7/2026
Maaden Brief:
Maaden, established in 1997, is one of the fastest-growing mining companies in the world and the largest multi-commodity mining and metals company in the Middle East. We are leading the development of the mining industry to become the third pillar of Saudi Arabia’s economy by building a world-class, unique, and fully integrated mining value chain."
We are pleased to share an exciting opportunity for the below mentioned position. This role offers a chance to contribute to our ambitious growth and play a key part in shaping the future of mining in the Kingdom.
OVERALL JOB PURPOSE:
The Lead Production Planner is responsible for leading the planning and coordination of production activities to meet organizational goals for efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. This role ensures the effective execution of S&OP processes, optimizes resource utilization, and drives continuous improvement in production planning. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in production planning, a strong background in S&OP, and recognized certification in supply chain management (CPIM or equivalent).
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:
- Lead S&OP Process: Drive the Sales & Operations Planning process, ensuring alignment between demand forecasts, production capacity, and inventory strategies.
- Production Planning: Develop and oversee daily, weekly, and monthly production plans based on demand forecasts, available resources, and business priorities.
- Resource Optimization: Determine and allocate manpower, equipment, and materials to maximize production efficiency and minimize delays.
- Performance Analysis: Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as efficiency, productivity, and downtime; identify and implement improvement opportunities.
- Continuous Improvement: Lead process improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with sales, supply chain, quality, and logistics teams to ensure production plans are aligned with business objectives.
- ERP & Data Management: Utilize ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP) and business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) for planning, analysis, and reporting.
- Reporting: Prepare and present regular analytical reports on production performance, risks, and improvement actions to management.
- Compliance & Documentation: Ensure all planning activities comply with company policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements; maintain accurate documentation.
- Mentoring & Leadership: Mentor junior planners and support the professional development of the planning team.
QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
Certification: CPIM (APICS) or equivalent supply chain certification is mandatory.
Minimum Experience:
Minimum 9–10 years of progressive experience in production planning, with significant exposure to S&OP processes in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
Skills:
- Technical Skills:
- Advanced proficiency in ERP systems (Oracle, SAP, or similar).
- Strong skills in Excel (data analysis, Pivot Tables, Power Query) and business intelligence tools (Power BI, Tableau).
- In-depth knowledge of supply chain principles, inventory management, and production scheduling.
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Personal Skills:
- Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proven leadership and team coordination experience.
- High level of organization, time management, and ability to work under pressure.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with advanced planning and scheduling systems (e.g., Quintiq).
- Demonstrated success in leading cross-functional teams and driving change.
- Experience in a large-scale industrial or metals manufacturing environment.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- On-time production plan adherence
- Production efficiency and productivity rates
- Inventory accuracy and stock availability
- S&OP process effectiveness and forecast accuracy
- Cost reduction and waste minimization
- Team development and knowledge transfer
