Overview Our Client in the Automotive Industry is seeking a Material Planner to join their team. The successful incumbent will be responsible for the complete availability of materials, ensuring minimal transportation costs, and facilitating the efficient movement of materials and goods. Minimum Requirements Grade 12/Matric Tertiary qualification in Logistics/Engineering/ related field Minimum 3 years' experience in a similar role 3 years' experience in Automotive / Factory Environment (Preferable) Experience in Freight Transportation and / or Engineering Work Studies (Preferable) Working Knowledge of Logistics policies and procedures Knowledge of material flow concepts (FIFO, KANBAN, JIT and JTDS) Knowledge of Packaging concepts (One-way; Returnable / Reusable; Stacking; Trolleys) Experience in QAD preferable, knowledge and experience in other ERP systems acceptable Job Responsibilities Set up a controlled ordering system that will ensure the timely placement of scheduled orders to Local and Overseas Suppliers. Regular – weekly/monthly – releases to suppliers – verify against parts lists/suppliers and cumulative call off versus average monthly Ensure 100% availability of goods Ensure minimal cost of transportation Balance material availability, inventory turns, and freight Ensure data accuracy (stocks, bill of material, and planning figures) Avoid obsolete material Weekly excess/slow-moving stock audit against agreed parameters. Weekly audit of stock values in comparison with agreed targets. Supplier delivery performance reports must be generated either weekly or monthly. Ensure the control system for customs documentation is always maintained. Implement and maintain a control system for imported stock as per customs & excise requirements. Co-ordinate the delivery of containers to the warehouse. Ensure that the necessary documentation is handed over to the warehouse. Assist the receiving department with processing queries of supplier documents. Assist the Finance department with any queries relating to supplied parts. Ensure SMRR documents are communicated with imported suppliers as well as processed on QAD – ERP System and shortfall component orders raised. Advise Freight Forwarders on parts that need to be collected on an urgent basis as well as method of transport. Maintain verification and control system with warehouses of purchased components. Implement and maintain weekly control of ECR changes in accordance with IOS -: Run Out/Run in Control and balance out claims. Implement & maintain control of premium freight charges per IOS and plant requirements. Assist with regular static data audits on QAD to always maintain an up-to-date database. Assist with stock counts as and when required. Develop and implement plans for the reduction of inventory and carry costs in line with agreed objectives without compromising service levels. Responsible for ensuring optimum inventory levels are maintained by parameters set by the Logistics Manager or Plant Manager. Key Competencies / Skills Planning and organizing skills Advanced computer literacy Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Decision-making/problem-solving skills Ability to cope with stressful situations