Lead - Material Planning and Control at Kenya Airways PLC

Kenya Airways PLC is seeking an experienced professional for the position of Lead - Material Planning and Control. The role is responsible for developing and implementing cost-effective technical material planning strategies that support the production and maintenance requirements of Kenya Airways and third-party operators while maintaining compliance with KCAA and other applicable civil aviation regulations.

The successful candidate will provide leadership in aircraft material provisioning, inventory management, supplier performance, budgeting, and material planning processes. The position also involves leading a high-performing team, optimizing aircraft MRP systems, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring the timely availability of aircraft spares, rotables, and related services.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the development of the vision, strategies, policies, processes, and procedures for aircraft material provisioning and inventory management.
• Develop strategic, tactical, and operational material management plans for aircraft spares, rotables, and services.
• Manage and guide component provisioning operations, including initial and continuous material provisioning.
• Continuously review material consumption and stock availability to meet Kenya Airways and third-party customer requirements.
• Lead the implementation of inventory management strategies, processes, and controls to maintain optimum stock levels.
• Ensure compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental policies.
• Support, coach, and develop team members.
• Promote a positive working environment and encourage continuous improvement.
• Demonstrate resilience, flexibility, and adaptability when responding to changing business requirements.
• Lead the development of a high-performing material planning team.
• Set sectional objectives and KPIs and manage performance appraisal processes.
• Continuously optimize aircraft MRP systems in collaboration with the Information Systems department.
• Support material cost management and supplier performance improvement through effective MRP utilization.
• Review and analyze expenditure, costs, and spending patterns and advise the business on best practices and corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with internal and external customers and suppliers.
• Support timely delivery of aircraft spares to meet Kenya Airways and third-party customer requirements.
• Participate in supplier meetings and negotiations to protect company interests.
• Monitor supplier performance and work with relevant stakeholders to resolve supplier concerns.
• Develop and implement service level agreements and ensure compliance by relevant stakeholders.
• Lead the timely resolution of orders, quotations, and invoice queries raised by internal and external customers.
• Ensure compliance with MCM requirements, civil aviation regulations, and the laws of Kenya when acquiring aircraft parts and tools.
• Develop, implement, and control the annual material planning budget.
• Lead quarterly reviews of budget performance and make adjustments to meet operational requirements.
• Prepare regular management reports to support business decision-making.

Qualifications required:

• Degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Experience in aircraft maintenance and parts repair management.
• Relevant commercial experience.
• Proficiency in computerized inventory control systems.
• Knowledge of aircraft parts airworthiness certification requirements, including EASA and FAA standards.
• Knowledge of KCAA and customs regulations relevant to aircraft parts is desirable.
• Good understanding of IATA resolutions and applicable industry rules.
• Experience in setting and managing contracts with clear performance targets.
• Minimum eight years of experience in a planning function.
• At least three years of experience in a management role.
• Five years of experience in an aircraft maintenance environment is preferred.
• Strong strategic thinking and business understanding.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong analytical abilities.
• High standards of integrity and professional ethics.
• Ability to support and motivate teams while maintaining focus on business objectives.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing requirements.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should submit their applications through the official Kenya Airways careers platform before the advertised application deadline. Applicants should ensure that their applications clearly demonstrate their experience in material planning, aircraft maintenance, inventory management, supply chain operations, and team leadership.

Kenya Airways PLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without discrimination based on characteristics protected by applicable laws. Candidates who require reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process are encouraged to contact Kenya Airways for assistance.

The Lead - Material Planning and Control position offers an opportunity for an experienced aviation planning and supply chain professional to provide strategic leadership in aircraft material provisioning, inventory optimization, supplier management, and cost-effective technical material planning.