Job Title: Stock Planner
Location: Gillingham, Kent
Reports To: Purchasing Manager
Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: 28-32k

About the business:

My client is a leading packaging wholesale company serving a wide range of industries with high-quality packaging solutions. They pride themselves on exceptional service, competitive pricing, and a robust supply chain that keeps our customers satisfied and operations running smoothly.

Purpose of a Stock Planner:

My client is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Stock Planner to oversee all aspects of purchasing, supplier coordination, and inventory administration. This critical role ensures that stock levels are optimally maintained, suppliers are effectively managed, and procurement processes run smoothly and cost-efficiently.

Key Responsibilities of a Stock Planner:

Purchasing

• Plan and execute all purchasing activities to maintain adequate stock levels based on sales demand, trends and forecasts.
• Generate and manage purchase orders in line with company needs and budgets.

Supplier Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance to ensure on-time deliveries and adherence to quality standards.
• Actively chase and follow up on outstanding or delayed orders.
• Resolve supplier issues promptly and professionally.

Stock Planning & Inventory Control

• Forecast demand using historical data, trends, and sales input.
• Maintain optimal stock levels to avoid overstocking or stockouts.
• Conduct regular stock checks and participate in inventory audits.
• Analyse and report on stock movement and purchasing KPIs.

Administration & Systems

• Accurately maintain inventory and purchasing records in ERP or inventory management systems.
• Prepare regular reports on stock status, order progress, and supplier performance.
• Support finance with supplier invoice queries and reconciliations.
• Ensure all documentation complies with company policies and procedures.

Requirements for a Stock Planner:

• Proven experience in stock planning, purchasing, or supply chain coordination, ideally in a wholesale or packaging environment.
• Strong knowledge of inventory and procurement systems (e.g., ERP, MRP software).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• Highly organized with great attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the wholesale distribution industry.
• Understanding of international suppliers and import processes.
• CIPS qualification or working towards it (advantageous but not essential).

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package

• Supportive and fast-paced working environment
• Opportunities for career growth within the business
• Company pension and holiday allowance
• On-site parking and modern facilities

If you are interested in this role, please apply today.

For more information, please call Olivia on (phone number removed)