Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: RFP • CPFR • SLA

MRP

Term from Supply Chain Consulting industry explained for recruiters

MRP (Material Requirements Planning) is a system that helps companies manage their manufacturing and inventory processes. Think of it as a smart planning tool that tells companies what materials to order, how much to order, and when to order them for production. It's like a shopping list manager for manufacturers that makes sure they have exactly what they need, when they need it, without keeping too much or too little inventory. Some common MRP systems include SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft Dynamics. These systems help prevent production delays and reduce warehouse costs by keeping track of everything needed for manufacturing.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented MRP system resulting in 30% reduction in inventory costs

Led team responsible for MRP and Material Requirements Planning optimization

Managed production scheduling using MRP software for a manufacturing facility

Typical job title: "MRP Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Supply Chain Analyst Production Planner Inventory Manager Materials Manager Supply Chain Consultant Manufacturing Planner Operations Specialist

Where to Find MRP Specialists

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement an MRP system in a company that's currently using manual processes?

Expected Answer: Should discuss change management, training needs, data collection requirements, phased implementation approach, and ways to measure success. Should mention importance of getting buy-in from different departments.

Q: How do you handle conflicts between MRP recommendations and real-world constraints?

Expected Answer: Should explain practical approaches to balancing system recommendations with actual capacity, budget limitations, and supplier relationships. Should demonstrate problem-solving experience.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when setting safety stock levels in an MRP system?

Expected Answer: Should explain consideration of lead times, demand variability, supplier reliability, and storage costs. Should show understanding of balancing inventory costs with production needs.

Q: How do you ensure data accuracy in MRP systems?

Expected Answer: Should discuss importance of accurate bill of materials, inventory counts, regular audits, and proper staff training. Should mention methods for maintaining data quality.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of MRP in manufacturing?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept of planning material needs based on production schedule, maintaining proper inventory levels, and coordinating purchases.

Q: What are the main inputs needed for an MRP system?

Expected Answer: Should identify master production schedule, bill of materials, and inventory records as key inputs. Should understand how these work together.