Manager, Planning

We're Hiring: Manager, Planning Location: South Deerfield, MACompany: Pelican    Who We Are: At Pelican, we engineer products that stand up to the world’s toughest conditions—because the people who rely on us do too. For nearly 50 years, we’ve been a trusted partner for military personnel, first responders, outdoor adventurers, and innovators who push the limits.     With a global presence that includes 11 offices, 4 manufacturing facilities, and 4 custom case centers, we create high-performance protective solutions that ensure our customers can focus on what matters most. Whether it’s transporting critical medical supplies, securing mission-essential equipment, or keeping expedition gear safe, Pelican products are Built to Protect to Equip for the Mission.     At Pelican, your work has a real-world impact. You’ll be part of a team driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and the shared belief that when the mission is critical, failure isn’t an option. If you’re ready to build something that makes a difference, be part of a team that protects what matters most.    What You'll Do:  Drive the plan. Optimize the flow. Power operational excellence. Pelican is seeking a strategic and results-driven Planning Manager to lead production planning, capacity planning, inventory optimization, and Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) for our South Deerfield manufacturing operation. In this highly visible leadership role, you'll help balance customer demand, manufacturing capacity, inventory investment, and business objectives while driving continuous improvement across the supply chain. This is an exciting opportunity for a planning professional who thrives on solving complex operational challenges, leveraging data to make decisions, and building scalable processes that support growth.   Production Planning & Scheduling Lead production planning and scheduling activities across Injection Molding, Rotomolding, and Assembly operations Develop planning strategies that optimize capacity utilization, inventory levels, customer service, and operational efficiency Monitor schedule attainment and production performance to drive improvements in throughput and on-time delivery Partner with Operations to proactively address constraints, shifting priorities, and customer requirements Support new product introductions, product transitions, and Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) to minimize inventory risk and disruption S&OP & Capacity Planning Lead capacity planning activities by balancing forecasted demand, labor requirements, equipment utilization, and inventory strategies Facilitate monthly Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) processes and align cross-functional stakeholders around business priorities Develop scenario-based planning models to support growth, demand variability, and risk mitigation Support long-range planning and capital investment decisions related to equipment, tooling, automation, and facility expansion Inventory & Supply Chain Optimization Drive inventory strategies that improve service levels, inventory turns, and working capital performance Collaborate with Supply Chain, Procurement, and Operations teams to ensure material availability and production continuity Monitor forecasts, inventory positions, and supply chain performance to identify risks and opportunities Develop and report key performance metrics including forecast accuracy, schedule attainment, capacity utilization, and inventory performance Systems & Continuous Improvement Lead optimization and continuous improvement of SAP planning functionality, Advanced Planning Systems (APS), and scheduling tools Utilize analytics and operational data to improve planning accuracy, responsiveness, and decision-making Champion Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives throughout planning and scheduling processes Identify and implement technology solutions that enhance visibility, automation, and operational performance Leadership & Team Development Lead, coach, and develop planning and scheduling team members Build a culture of accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence Establish performance expectations, development plans, and succession strategies Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Engineering, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Plant Leadership to deliver business results Perform additional duties as assigned   What We’re Looking For: Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive experience in production planning, demand planning, supply planning, materials management, or manufacturing operations. Minimum of 3–5 years of leadership experience managing planners, schedulers, or supply chain professionals. Demonstrated experience leading S&OP, capacity planning, inventory optimization, and production planning processes. Strong understanding of forecasting, demand planning, supply planning, inventory management, and manufacturing operations. Experience working within ERP and Advanced Planning Systems. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent communication and cross-functional leadership abilities. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools. Training and experience in an ISO 9001 (2015) and/or ISO 14001 environment Experience with manufacturing   What’s In It For You:  Join a company that truly values its employees! We offer a relaxed and casual work environment, a strong commitment to giving back to communities, and a focus on employee satisfaction. With regular opportunities to share feedback with leadership and structured performance evaluations, we ensure that your voice is heard and your growth is supported.   Competitive paid time off plans / Holiday pay /extra vacation purchase opportunities 401k plan – with immediate match   Great Benefits – several options including Pet insurance for our animal lovers.  Health Savings Account Contribution Wellness Discount Program  Global Mental Wellness Program  Quarterly Employee Celebration Days Peer to Peer Recognition Program Service Recognition Program Amazing employee discount program on Pelican Products, Pelican branded apparel and gear  Employee referral program – get paid to work with your trusted network.   Beautiful New England location  Onsite Gym Established reputable brand offering premium products – you’ll be proud to represent Pelican!  And more…