Production Planner and Inventory Controller

Production Planner & Inventory Controller

Location: Howick, KwaZulu-Natal

Company: VDB Africa (Pty) Ltd

VDB Africa is a leading manufacturer of food fortification premixes, supplying customers across Southern and Eastern Africa. We are committed to quality, food safety, innovation, and operational excellence. We are looking for a highly organised and analytical Production Planner & Inventory Controller to join our growing team and play a key role in ensuring efficient production planning, procurement and accurate inventory management.

About the Role

The Production Planner & Inventory Controller will be responsible for developing and maintaining production schedules while ensuring optimal inventory levels of raw materials, packaging, work-in-progress, and finished goods. This role is critical in ensuring customer orders are fulfilled on time while maintaining inventory accuracy and supporting continuous improvement across the manufacturing operation.

Key Responsibilities

Production Planning

* Develop and maintain daily, weekly, and monthly production schedules.

* Schedule manufacturing orders based on customer demand, capacity, and material availability.

* Coordinate production priorities with Sales, Procurement, Quality Assurance, and Manufacturing.

* Monitor production progress and adjust schedules where necessary.

* Identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to maximise efficiency.

* Ensure production plans meet customer delivery requirements.

Inventory Control

* Maintain accurate inventory records for all raw materials, packaging, and finished products.

* Conduct regular cycle counts and stock reconciliations.

* Investigate and resolve stock discrepancies.

* Monitor inventory levels and ensure adequate stock is available without overstocking.

* Assist with stock forecasting and replenishment planning.

* Manage inventory transactions within the ERP system.

Procurement & Material Planning

* Generate purchase requisitions based on production requirements.

* Liaise with suppliers regarding delivery schedules.

* Monitor supplier performance relating to delivery commitments.

* Ensure critical materials are available ahead of production.

Reporting & Administration

* Produce production planning and inventory reports.

* Analyse inventory movements and production performance.

* Maintain accurate manufacturing documentation.

* Support monthly stock takes and financial audits.

* Develop and monitor production KPIs.

Continuous Improvement

* Identify opportunities to improve planning processes and inventory accuracy.

* Participate in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.

* Assist with implementing improved planning systems and processes.

Minimum Requirements

* Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Production Management, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.

* Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in production planning and inventory control within a manufacturing environment.

* Experience using ERP systems (Sage Business Cloud, SAP, Syspro, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar).

* Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

* Strong numerical and analytical ability.

* Excellent organisational and planning skills.

* High attention to detail.

* Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Advantageous

* Experience in the food manufacturing or FMCG industry.

* Knowledge of food safety systems (FSSC 22000, HACCP, GMP).

* Understanding of MRP and production scheduling.

* Experience with barcode and inventory management systems.

* Knowledge of demand forecasting techniques.

Key Competencies

* Planning and organisation

* Analytical thinking

* Problem-solving

* Time management

* Accuracy and attention to detail

* Teamwork and collaboration

* Initiative and accountability

* Decision-making

* Continuous improvement mindset

What We Offer

* Competitive salary based on experience.

* Opportunities for professional development and career growth.

* A collaborative and supportive working environment.

* The opportunity to contribute to improving nutrition across Africa through food fortification.

How to Apply

* A detailed CV.

* A cover letter outlining their suitability for the role.

* Copies of relevant qualifications.

Applications should be emailed to: Sign in to view email

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. VDB Africa reserves the right not to make an appointment. Employment will be subject to reference checks and verification of qualifications.