FOR every organisation to thrive, there has to be a professional or professionals involved in planning. This is the person responsible for generating ideas, putting these ideas on paper, establishing logistics for operations and executing plans.

Andre Bennett is the material and production planning manager at Red Stripe, Jamaica, a position he has held for the last three years. He is based in the logistics department. Bennett, who has been with Red Stripe for 10 years, this week shares with Career & Education an insight into his career.

Who is a material and production planning manager?

A material and production planning manager is responsible for managing the inflow of materials and products to meet consumer demand. To ensure that this is met, it is critical that storage capacity, established minimum order quantities and assigned inventory targets are all taken into consideration to avoid mishaps.

What is the value of the work that you do?

The value of the work that is put in by the logistics team cannot be measured in numbers, but is simply based on impact. And this is evidenced by Red Stripe’s infiltration and presence in the local market, evoking international flair and appeal. All of this is due to our ability to package our products in a way that appeals to our consumers, as well as to meet their consumption needs. The availability of products is also essential for the performance of the company and customer satisfaction, which my team is guided by.

What do you enjoy the most about your career?

To be able to sit at my desk, make a plan, communicate the plan and then go on the packaging floor to see it being executed. It also gives me a sense of pride to see consumers and customers enjoying the end product after all the laborious “behind the scenes” work.

What are your responsibilities?

I manage a team of planners and import co-ordinators who schedule the deliveries of all input materials and consumables. I am also responsible for developing an operations plan and to oversee the importation process of materials. To perform adeptly in this capacity, I have to create and maintain an excellent relationship with local and overseas suppliers and all internal stakeholders.

What are the qualifications for your job?

You will need a minimum of five years’ experience in a managerial role. You may need certifications such as a certificate as a certified accounting technician and certified chartered accountant.

What are some of the challenges you face on the job?

Challenges will surface in areas that I have least control over, such as suppliers’ inability to meet requirements, our returnable package (bottles), delays with shipping lines and fluctuation in demand.

What advice do you have for others who wish to enter the field?

It’s an exciting and rewarding role. It is often the pivot between demand and supply in most organisations, and as such it can become quite demanding. To perform effectively in this capacity, you must keep abreast of organisational and industry activities/standards, and must have an appreciation for other internal business functions. You are guaranteed to never have a dull day. Every day brings forth new and interesting challenges.