Global Operations Planning Manager

The Operations Planning Manager will be driving strategic alignment across our global manufacturing and distribution operations through execution of the Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP) process. The objective is to synergize production/contract manufacturing, inventory management, demand and supply planning, and logistics with our overarching strategic business goals. By leveraging the SIOP process, ensure a seamless integration of operational activities with our long-term objectives of our global sales and manufacturing footprint. The Operations Planning Manager will be key in translating strategic plans into actionable operational initiatives, ensuring that our manufacturing operations are not only responsive but also proactive in meeting the dynamic needs of the market and our customers. This position is full time M-F, will be working at our EMEA headquarters in Amsterdam, NL, and will report to the Sr. Director of Supply Chain.

Key Responsibilities:

Drive strategic alignment across manufacturing and distribution operations by leading the Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP) process.

• Ensure operational activities are fully integrated with strategic business objectives to enhance global manufacturing efficiency and effectiveness.

• Prepare key data for productive SIOP meetings, involving cross-functional teams from sales, production, finance, and supply chain to develop cohesive plans.

• Translate strategic objectives into detailed operational plans, including production schedules, inventory management strategies, and logistics coordination.

• Analyze market trends, demand forecasts, and sales data to adjust the SIOP process and align operations planning with market dynamics.

• Manage global inventory levels to optimize stock availability, reduce excess, and mitigate obsolescence risks.

• Initiate and lead continuous improvement projects within the operations planning framework to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.

• Collaborate with supply chain partners to ensure the smooth execution of procurement, manufacturing, and distribution plans.

• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the effectiveness of the SIOP process and make data-driven decisions for improvements.

• Prepare and present reports to senior management on the outcomes of the SIOP process, including performance metrics, challenges, and strategic opportunities for alignment.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards, maintaining the highest levels of quality and safety within the global manufacturing network.

• Manages production schedules from planning to release

  • Review for material constraints; make recommendations to material planners and buyers as needed.

  • Ensures planned production schedule is feasible based on production capability.

  • Understands and performs constraint management to achieve objectives.

• Works closely with sales to ensure the production schedules fulfills the sales forecast.

• Reviews material supply and demand to determine push/pull actions that appropriately affect manufacturing MPS and supply MRP.

• Develop and report on key metrics, such as container planning, material constraints, what-if planning scenarios, delta to forecasts.

Desired:

• APICS certification

• SAP knowledge (S4HANA / IBP preferred)

·       Use knowledge and experience of process flow to provide a useful resource to Materials on ERP and business system issues.

·       Analyze and report on Risks in schedules and suggest mitigation options

·       Knowledge of Theory of Constraints.

·       Experience applying Lean concepts and Six Sigma is desirable

Required Education/Experience:

• 10 plus years in manufacturing/engineering environment (preferably automotive)

• 5 plus years using ERP systems.

• Bachelor’s degree in business or math/science

• Production background including experience of planning machining, fabrication and assembly processes.

Skills and Attributes

• Experience in the use of SAP or similar ERP systems for the production planning process

• Ability to communicate effectively between operations departments (sales ops, manufacturing, purchasing, and materials)

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel (reporting and analysis)

• Strong analytical skills are essential.

Physical and Sensory Requirements:

·       Candidate must be able to sit for long periods of time to perform duties, and to walk around and make inquiries from other staff, management as needed.

Other Requirements (if applicable)

·       Background or experience with motorcycles is a plus.

·       Licensed motorcycle rider is a plus.

Why Zero Motorcycles

Zero Motorcycles, a leader and innovator in electric motorcycles and commercial powertrains, incorporates advanced technology, stunning design and commitment to environmental benefits. The EV space is growing dramatically, with Zero a leader in the two-wheel category and a rising star in powertrain applications to other OEMs electrifying sport and utility vehicles for powersport and industrial applications.

At Zero Motorcycles, you’ll join a passionate, fast-growing global team with a truly international spirit. While our roots in the United States, have branched-out to Europe and stablished in The Netherlands, our team now spans across more than 10 countries, representing over 15 nationalities—and counting! We thrive in a multicultural, multilingual environment where fresh ideas are welcomed, big dreams are encouraged, and success is celebrated together.

Our team is united by a shared mission and a love for what we do. Whether we're collaborating across time zones or catching up in the office, you'll find a group that’s driven, committed, and always ready to share a laugh.

We value connection beyond the work itself. From office lunches and Friday drinks to spontaneous barbecues when the sun’s out, and legendary Xmas parties and team-building days, we believe in having fun while we work hard.

Working with Zero Motorcycles, you’ll also have opportunities to represent us at events and trade shows—locally and internationally—if that’s something you enjoy. And as we continue to grow, so can you. We’re invested in your development and success, and we can’t wait to see where your journey with us will take you.

Additionally

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Inclusive and open-door culture with driven, fun colleagues.
• Work in a dynamic, innovative environment leading the EV revolution.