SAP Production Planning Lead

Job Purpose

The Production Planning Lead will play a critical role in designing, developing, and implementing efficient business systems that support core organizational functions. This position ensures the deployment of advanced manufacturing solutions—including SAP MRP, PP, MES, and PLM—and leads the SAP Production Planning workstream for global SAP deployments, organizational changes, process improvements, and ongoing support.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:
•    Develop and execute mid-term (1–2 years) and long-term (3–5 years) strategies in collaboration with the SAP Release Lead.
•    Serve as SAP Solution Architect, accountable for the design and implementation of SAP capabilities specific to Production Planning and Materials Management.
•    Optimize and configure SAP Production Planning modules to meet business needs.
•    Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners.
•    Drive efficiency through innovation and automation initiatives.
•    Lead future SAP implementations across Dana facilities.
•    Define and gather requirements for enhancements and new implementations within Production Planning.
•    Ensure all system processes, customizations, and configurations adhere to quality standards.
•    Collaborate with developers and technical teams to implement functional specifications and resolve issues promptly.
•    Monitor and manage issue resolution, ensuring timely tracking and reporting.
•    Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team.

Education and Qualifications

Education & Qualifications:
•    Bachelor’s degree in Business or Technical discipline required (or equivalent 8+ years of related experience).
•    Master’s degree preferred.
•    Minimum 7+ years of relevant professional experience.
•    Fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking).

Skills and Competencies

Required Experience & Skills:
•    Strong knowledge of project methodology and process modeling.
•    Expertise in developing functional specifications, integration test plans, and conducting user acceptance testing.
•    Deep understanding of business processes and their integration points.
•    Ability to identify and resolve critical issues efficiently.
•    Hands-on experience with: 
o    MRP, ATP, BOM/Routing development, Serial Number tracking, Repetitive Manufacturing, Batch Management
o    SAP MRP and Production Planning modules (technical and functional aspects)
o    MES and PLM system integration
o    SAP Fiori applications within PP/MM modules
•    Proven track record in end-to-end solution delivery (requirements, design, configuration, training, support).
•    Skilled in managing third-party vendor relationships in complex project environments.
________________________________________
Preferred Functional Expertise:
•    Discrete manufacturing
•    MES integration
•    Material Master management
•    Capacity Planning
•    RF Scanners
•    Subcontracting processes
•    Inventory and Warehouse Management (a plus)