Despatch Planner

We have an exciting opportunity for a proactive and detail-driven individual to join us as a Despatch Planner at our Birmingham (Smethwick) operational hub. This is a key position within our logistics and supply chain operations during an exciting period of modernisation, following the implementation of our new scanning systems, and a fantastic opportunity to be part of a high-performing site team!

Responsibilities

Working closely with the Despatch Team Leader, Production, and Customer Services teams; Managing the daily production schedule and UK-wide transport plan; Taking ownership of route optimisation, load utilisation, and vehicle allocation across supplier and customer delivery networks; Driving on-time, in-full (OTIF) delivery; Liaising between on-site manufacturing teams and external transport partners to ensure smooth inbound and outbound goods flow; Balancing daily operational workloads, proactively managing early-morning volume peaks, and identifying continuous improvement opportunities to eliminate bottlenecks, reduce waste, and deliver world-class service to our customers

Requirements

Background in transport planning, despatch, or logistics, ideally within manufacturing or FMCG; Strong understanding of vehicle capacities, load planning, and route optimisation; Proven problem-solving skills with the ability to manage early-morning volume peaks under pressure; Clear and effective communicator, confident liaising across site teams and external hauliers; Attention to detail regarding paperwork, system scheduling, and transport compliance

Benefits

Competitive salary; 25 days holiday plus bank holidays; Pension scheme, life assurance and income protection; Employee Assistance Programme; Employee Discounts; Cycle to work scheme