Material Planner

Russell Stover•Kansas City, MO

6d•Onsite

About The Position

At Russell Stover, we are seeking a Material Planner who will play a critical role in ensuring the timely and efficient procurement of packaging and raw materials to support manufacturing operations. This role leverages MRP systems and production schedules to analyze and determine material requirements, maintaining optimal supply levels across our manufacturing sites. The Material Planner will coordinate with suppliers by issuing purchase order releases, communicating order details, and managing follow-ups through to delivery. Responsibilities also include addressing and resolving invoice and quality discrepancies, and managing inbound shipments from co-pack suppliers to our Distribution Centers by reviewing supply and demand reports and placing orders accordingly. Success requires strong collaboration across multiple functions—including production planning, marketing, and engineering—as well as effective communication with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
Excellent communication skills and the ability to speak, read, and write English fluently, with or without an accommodation.
Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills
Experience leveraging computer desktop applications (Excel, PowerPoint) skills
Experience with MPR/ERP systems
Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and re-prioritize as needed

Nice To Haves

Manufacturing experience
Experience with SAP/IBP

Responsibilities

Analyze MRP and production schedules to determine purchase requirements
Serve as front line planner/buyer with suppliers for specific commodities, working directly with vendors to coordinate shipments to meet the company’s production demands
Execute purchase requisitions and purchase orders for products and services as needed to support planning, manufacturing, while maintaining appropriate inventory levels.
Coordinate the resolution of invoice discrepancies when needed
Expedite and communicate back order and delivery status within supply chain
Cultivate and implement best practices with vendors
Assist with new projects and development of specifications
Review production samples for quality and conformance to specifications
Completion of special tasks or projects assigned on an individual or group basis
Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure product quality and maintain compliance with food safety standards
Complete and follow FSQA training and programs to comply with regulatory requirements, ensure consumer safety, and support the plant’s food safety and quality objectives
Promptly report and take appropriate action on any observed or potential food safety hazards, process deviations, or non-conformities by notifying the designated plant supervisor, in accordance with your role and responsibilities
Actively contributes to the continuous improvement of the company’s Food Safety Culture through engagement and actions aligned with your role