Materials Planner
Experience fair hiring! We prioritise equality with our anonymous screening process. Your skills shine, not your personal info. Apply now and let your abilities speak for themselves!
We’re not just another bike brand - we're an iconic, British motorcycle brand with over 120 years of history behind us. Our new state-of-the-art facilities in Solihull, West Midlands are home to a tight-knit, but ever-expanding team that's passionate about delivering exquisite riding experiences to our customers.
Under new ownership and proud to be part of the TVS Motor family, we're entering a new era of global success. And we want you to be a part of it!
At Norton, we value respect, trust, and responsibility. We trust our employees to execute their roles exceptionally and professionally, and we value personal development, teaching, and learning. When you join our team, you'll have the opportunity to grow and learn alongside some of the most talented and dedicated people in the business.
So if you're passionate about motorcycles and looking to join a team that's shaping the future of this legendary brand, we'd love to hear from you!
The Role
Norton Motorcycles is seeking a proactive, detail-oriented, and highly organised Materials Planner to join our Supply Chain team. Working within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, you will play a critical role in ensuring materials and components are available to support motorcycle production, maintaining continuity of supply and optimal inventory levels.
This position is primarily focused on material planning, with a smaller element of purchasing and supplier coordination. You will work closely with Production, Quality, Engineering, Logistics, and suppliers to ensure components are delivered on time, engineering changes are effectively managed, and manufacturing operations run smoothly across current motorcycle programmes.
Duties/Responsibilities
Monitor production schedules against material availability to prevent shortages and minimise the risk of line stoppages
Utilise SAP and MRP systems to review planning reports, identify errors or anomalies, and implement corrective actions
Maintain and validate supplier data and planning parameters within MRP systems, including lead times, minimum order quantities (MOQs), safety stock levels, and replenishment settings
Conduct daily and weekly material coverage reviews to ensure production requirements are met
Manage inventory levels in line with production forecasts, build plans, and agreed stock targets
Coordinate and monitor inbound logistics activities for production materials, subcontracted components, and aftersales parts
Support the Quality team in the management and resolution of rejected or non-conforming materials
Carry out stock reconciliations and audits at supplier locations, investigating and resolving discrepancies where required
Support inventory optimisation initiatives, including excess stock reduction, obsolescence management, and dilution activities
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support engineering changes and ensure smooth material transitions
Raise and manage purchase orders for existing motorcycle models in collaboration with Category Buyers and Purchasing Managers
Support the implementation of Design Change Notices (DCNs) and ensure material requirements are updated accordingly
Communicate production volume requirements and delivery schedules with suppliers
Monitor supplier performance and escalate supply risks where appropriate
Ensure timely closure of supplier invoices and proforma invoices in accordance with agreed payment terms
Personal Specification
Previous experience in a Material Planning, Supply Chain, or Manufacturing Planning role
Hands-on experience using SAP and MRP planning systems
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail
Experience working within an automotive, engineering, aerospace, or similarly complex manufacturing environment
Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively within a fast-paced production setting
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external suppliers
Good understanding of procurement processes, purchasing terminology, and supplier management principles
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including the use of Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and data analysis tools
Desirable Experience/Knowledge
Experience in material planning, scheduling, or supply chain coordination within a manufacturing environment
Knowledge of manufacturing processes, Bill of Materials (BOM) structures, and engineering change management
Experience coordinating logistics, inbound freight, or warehouse operations
Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles, inventory optimisation techniques, and root-cause analysis methodologies
Familiarity with supplier performance monitoring and continuous improvement activities
Rewards of working for Norton:
We like to take care of our Nortoneers and we think we offer some pretty decent rewards. Here's what you'll get when you join the team:
Competitive salary package that recognises your skills and experience
33 days holiday (inc. Bank Hols) to relax and recharge
Generous pension scheme that sets you up for the future, with access to personalised advice.
Private Medical Insurance and a Cash Back Programme to keep you feeling your best
Life insurance (4x salary) because we've got your back no matter what
FREE fruit, got to have your five-a-day!
WeCare Employee Assistance Programme, which includes access to online GP services, dietary advice, mental health support, bereavement counselling, and a fitness programme
Experience the thrill of an entrepreneurial environment within a larger, well-funded company with ambitious long-term goals.
Elevate your career with our Ideas for Excellence scheme, where every brilliant idea is not just valued, but also rewarded!
A diverse and international team that brings together different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences.
Join the fun with our twice-yearly employee events, payday socials, and loads of exciting activities in between!
Want to go green? You can enjoy free electric bicycle hire
Plus, no need to stress about finding a parking spot - we've got on-site free parking covered and FREE electric charge points.
We know how important it is to take care of our team, and we're committed to continually improving our reward offering in line with the business growth plan.
Join us and see for yourself!
PLEASE NOTE, WE DO NOT ACCEPT AGENCY APPLICATIONS
- Department
- Supply Chain
- Role
- Materials Planning
- Locations
- Head Office
- Employment type
- Full-time
About Norton Motorcycles
Join one of the most iconic brands in the motorcycle industry. We are in a pivotal moment of our history, and therefore the right candidates will be able to help us secure future success, drive value from innovation, and create a quality-driven, indomitable legacy.