Planning Lead

RAFARM is a leading Greek pharmaceutical company specializing in the development and production of sterile generics and exporting to more than 60 countries worldwide. The company’s growth journey is shaped by strong global strategic partnerships and ambitious development initiatives, marked by significant milestones — including recent investments that strengthen the introduction of innovation and the development of high value-added medicines, driving continued progress. In parallel, RAFARM maintains a strong commercial presence in the Greek market, serving as a representative for products from international pharmaceutical companies and ensuring patients’ access to high-quality treatments. RAFARM is driven by a team of more than 750 people who cultivate an inclusive environment that enables collaboration, performance, and continuous advancement.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Planning Lead to oversee planning activities across our Manufacturing Operations. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining efficient production and packaging schedules, optimizing manufacturing capacity, and ensuring high customer service levels within a GMP-regulated pharmaceutical environment.

Working closely with Manufacturing, Packaging, Supply Planning, Procurement, Warehouse, Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and Engineering, you will play a key role in ensuring uninterrupted product availability and the successful execution of production plans.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead production and packaging planning for pharmaceutical products.
• Develop and maintain weekly and monthly production schedules based on customer demand, inventory targets and capacity constraints.
• Balance manufacturing capacity, labor availability and material readiness to maximize plant performance.
• Coordinate schedule changes resulting from demand fluctuations, material shortages or operational priorities.
• Monitor production execution and adjust plans to minimize delays and maximize service levels.
• Ensure availability of raw materials and packaging components in collaboration with Supply Planning and Procurement.
• Identify bottlenecks and propose mitigation plans to maintain production continuity.
• Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Packaging, QA, QC and Warehouse teams to ensure smooth execution of the production plan.
• Participate in S&OP / Supply Review meetings providing planning assumptions, capacity analysis and execution risks.
• Track and report KPIs related to schedule adherence, capacity utilization, production attainment and planning accuracy.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within Production Planning processes.
• Support ERP/MRP planning activities and maintain planning master data accuracy.
• Lead and coach Production Planners, promoting best planning practices and process discipline.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Pharmacy, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Production Planning within the pharmaceutical, FMCG, or another regulated manufacturing environment.
• Previous experience in a leadership or senior planning role is considered a strong advantage.
• Strong understanding of production planning, capacity planning, scheduling, and inventory management principles.
• Experience working with ERP/MRP systems (SAP preferred).
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Preferred Competencies

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong stakeholder management and leadership capabilities.
• Competitive Compensation
• Private Health Insurance
• Career Development Opportunities
• Innovative Work Environment
• Recognition and Rewards

Why Join Us

At RAFARM, you will be part of a passionate team dedicated to making a positive impact on global health. You will grow your career in a dynamic and innovative environment where your contributions matter. If you think that the above position suits you, then we are waiting for your application!

After the collection and evaluation of all CV's, we will contact only those candidates who meet the requirements of the position to be filled in order to set an appointment for an interview. All applications are considered strictly confidential.