Planning Associate

The Planning Associate is responsible for developing and managing global production schedules to ensure spinal medical device products are manufactured and delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with quality standards. This role collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to optimize resource allocation, maintain healthy inventory levels, and minimize production delays.

Key responsibilities include production planning, inventory management, report development, project coordination, and effective communication with internal stakeholders. The Planning Associate also supports cross-functional initiatives and continuous improvement efforts to achieve production goals, improve inventory efficiency, and enhance overall supply chain performance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and monitor production schedules and reporting to support spinal medical device kit builds, replenishment, and obsolescence activities.
• Partner with Procurement and Inventory teams to ensure timely material availability and release for production requirements.
• Monitor production performance, analyze key metrics, and identify opportunities to improve planning efficiency, inventory health, and operational effectiveness.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Quality Assurance, Marketing, Field Operations, and other departments to resolve production-related issues and support business initiatives.
• Maintain accurate production records, planning data, schedules, and performance metrics to support operational decision-making.
• Communicate production schedules, timelines, risks, and status updates to internal stakeholders in a timely and effective manner.
• Support international operations by coordinating production supply requirements and contributing to global planning and supply chain projects.
• Process and manage international orders, customer complaints, and product returns in accordance with established procedures.
• Assist in the onboarding and training of new team members on planning processes, systems, and best practices.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and continuous improvement initiatives to achieve production targets and inventory optimization goals.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.