Value Stream Planning Analyst Tables-1563

What is the job

The Value Stream Planning Analyst plays a key role in strengthening production planning and operational performance through data-driven analysis and ERP system optimisation. This role bridges the gap between office and manufacturing environments supporting value stream improvement initiatives driving planning accuracy and enabling informed decision-making. Working closely with the Value Stream Planning Manager and Business Unit Leaders the role helps to deliver efficient reliable and lean-led planning processes across the business unit.

Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00 am 4.30 pm (fully on site role)

Department: Tables

Interview process: 2 stage process following shortlisting First stage: 1 hour Teams interview

Second stage: OnSite 2 hour interview

Who we are

Thorlabs is a global industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

Where you will be working

You will be working in our new purpose-built facility in Witchford Ely. Ourpurpose-built facility isjust 12 miles from Cambridge within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.

What is essential to us

Advanced user of ERP/MRP systems with a proven ability to configure optimise and drive process improvements

Experienced in data mining report building and dashboarding using ERP Excel Power BI or similar tools

Strong understanding of BOM structures routings and lead-time management

Familiar with flow-based production principles pull systems and takt time concepts is highly desirable

A good understanding of LEAN manufacturing techniques

Strong computer literacy and understanding of ERP systems (D365)

A positive and flexible approach to continuous improvement activities

Willing to change hours as needed to ensure onsite production scheduling support

What we would like you to do/ to see

Generate and maintain achievable production plans to meet promised delivery dates matching MRP demand with works orders based on stock availability and capacity.

Collaborate closely with the Inventory Control Purchasing and other relevant members of the Planning team to ensure planned demand is achievable and parts are available- MRP supermarket inventories and kanban

Collaborate with global teams to support change and improvement opportunities

Analyse sales demand trends to drive lead initiatives

Attend and contribute to daily Tier 3 meeting

Proactively seek to develop knowledge of MRP settings attending the PPP D365 meetings and collaborating with local and other teams.

Analyse Business Unit related KPI reports to identifying opportunities for continuous improvement

Use data to enhance visual management on the shop floor

Regularly visit the gemba to validate data accuracy understand process flow and align office planning with shop-floor realities

Be the point of contact for upcoming NPI releases and custom product releases

Attend obsolescence meetings and be prepared to provide projected warehouse depletion timelines to ensure uninterrupted product supply; communicate warehouse run down updates regularly to Production and Engineering.

Support and/or lead initiatives in office functions to support operational changes required on the shop floor

Participate in problem-solving events to identify root causes (5 Whys Ishikawa etc.) and drive continuous improvement initiatives that follow PDCA A3 or other lean practical problem-solving methods

What will you get

At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking free refreshments as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.

And the benefits are

Competitive Salary to attract the best plus an excellent benefits package including pension health care 25 days holiday plus public holidays.

Job Reference: THOR-VC-1563

This is a rolling campaign so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore if you are interested please submit your application as early as possible.

We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old.

*This is a legal requirement further information is here School leaving age - ()

This role does not currently meet the UK Visas and Immigration criteria for obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa we are therefore unable to accept applications that require employer sponsorship in order to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa.

All offers of employment are subject to eligibility to work in the UK.

We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.

-Contributed Pension Scheme -Group Life Cover -Private Health Care -Group Income Protection & more.

Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd 204 Lancaster Way Business Park Ely Cambs CB6 3NX or e-mail

We are Disability Confident Committed

In line with the requirements of the Immigration Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.

Required Experience:

IC