Network Supply Planner
Location: Macclesfield, UK
Introduction to role
Astra Zeneca Clinical Supply Chain is transforming and as part of that transformation we are building our approach to Capacity Planning. This role will be a fundamental part of building that new future. It leads all aspects of the weekly Supply & Operations Execution (S&OE) cycle and plays a key part to the Clinical Supply & Operations Planning (CS&OP) monthly review cycle at Global Clinical Supply Chain.
Accountabilities
This role will lead the cross clinical study supply plan, over the tactical planning horizon, ensuring this is constrained to known asset capacity, flexibility and wherever relevant the contractual agreements. As part of their planning responsibility, they will ensure that relevant supply constraints and events are modeled. The role will drive the S&OE process by facilitating the relevant meeting and reviews and develop the inputs into CS&OP process where asset capacity is discussed for the whole clinical portfolio. Act as the gate keeper of the operational supply plan and the liaison between the external supplier/internal asset and internal CM&S study/project facing roles ensuring that a constrained executable supply plan is maintained. The role is accountable for operating the S&OE and CS&OP processes for an assigned clinical supply portfolio (e.g. Oral Solid Dose, Parenteral).
Responsibilities
End‑to‑end operation of the monthly CS&OP cycle for the portfolio, including:
Consolidation and governance of demand inputs
Application of demand scenarios for capacity testing
Complete portfolio‑level Rough Cut Capacity Planning (RCCP) to create a capacity constrained, achievable Network Supply Plan
Lead Supply Capability review meetings as a key step within CS&OP cycle
Portfolio‑level capacity risk assessment across internal assets and external suppliers
Preparation of decision‑grade outputs for executive review
Act as the single orchestration point between:
Programme demand owners (CM&S / LCS)
Planners and CSPLs
Procurement and asset owners
End‑to‑end operation of the weekly S&OE cycle for the portfolio, ensuring:
A constrained, executable supply plan is maintained
Near‑term supply risks, events, and deviations are identified and managed
Clear escalation of issues outside agreed tolerances
Ensuring consistent application of:
Agreed timing and granularity rules
Capacity risk logic and RAG definitions
Decision, action, and follow‑up discipline
The role runs the planning governance for the assigned portfolio. It does not own forecast accuracy, recruitment assumptions, or detailed execution scheduling beyond S&OE scope.
Essential skills / experience
Degree in supply chain related or drug development field or equivalent experience or qualification.
Advanced Excel skills, including proficiency in building and managing complex operational plans in Excel.
Good understanding of S&OP process.
Knowledge of network capacity planning, including experience working with external manufacturing partners.
Good communication and leadership skills, with demonstrated success influencing cross‑functional teams and senior stakeholders.
Analytical mindset with the ability to use data to drive decision‑making and problem‑solving.
Experience in supply chain planning tools and systems, with a track record of driving process improvements.
Desirable skills / experience
APICS / CSCP or equivalent certification Lean certification.
Leadership experience.
Experience designing and implementing S&OE or S&OP planning processes.
Experience developing supply chain tools and models in Microsoft Excel.
When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we ignite bold thinking with the power to inspire life‑changing medicines. In‑person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.
At Astra Zeneca, we are driven by our commitment to deliver accelerated growth and to make people's lives better. It pushes us to keep building on our foundations and progressing as we turn our ever‑growing and increasingly complex pipeline from molecule to medicine. Be part of evolving how we work with Lean, innovative science, digitalisation and sustainable practices. We are leading the way in delivering Lean processes that drive greater efficiency and speed. Sustainable practices are at the heart of what we do, ensuring we lead our environmental impact across all our activities and products.
Are you ready to make a positive impact, in a team where it means more? If you have the passion and the drive to accelerate growth and make people's lives better, then this is the place for you. Apply now and join us on this exciting journey!
Date Posted 26-Feb-2026
Closing Date 13-Mar-2026
Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at Astra Zeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.
