The Role
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Demand & Supply Planner to join our team on a 9-month contract. This role is critical in ensuring optimal stock availability, accurate forecasting, and efficient supply planning across a fast-paced, high-volume FMCG environment.
You will play a key role in balancing demand and supply, minimising stock risks, and driving service level performance while supporting business growth.
Key Responsibilities
Demand Planning
- Develop and maintain accurate demand forecasts using historical data, market trends, and customer insights
- Collaborate with Sales, Commercial, and Marketing teams to incorporate promotions, new product launches, and seasonal activity
- Monitor forecast accuracy (MAPE) and implement continuous improvement initiatives
- Identify risks and opportunities within the demand plan and take proactive action
Supply Planning
- Create and manage supply plans to ensure product availability while optimising stock levels
- Work closely with suppliers and distribution centres to manage lead times, capacity constraints, and replenishment schedules
- Balance service level targets against inventory holding and cost efficiency
- Manage stock allocation and prioritisation during periods of constraint
S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning)
- Support the monthly S&OP process, ensuring alignment between demand, supply, and business objectives
- Prepare reporting and analysis for S&OP meetings
- Provide clear visibility of risks, constraints, and mitigation plans
Inventory Management
- Monitor stock levels, slow-moving and obsolete inventory
- Implement actions to reduce excess stock and minimise write-offs
- Ensure optimal safety stock levels are maintained
Stakeholder Management
- Build strong relationships across internal teams (Sales, Finance, Operations)
- Act as a key point of contact for planning-related queries and decisions
- Communicate effectively with suppliers and logistics partners
Data & Reporting
- Analyse KPIs including forecast accuracy, service levels, stock turns, and availability
- Produce regular reports and insights to inform decision-making
- Drive improvements through data-led recommendations
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven experience in Demand Planning, Supply Planning, or Supply Chain Planning within FMCG or a fast-moving distribution environment
- Strong analytical skills with advanced Excel capability (ERP/Planning systems experience desirable e.g. SAP, Oracle, or similar)
- Experience working within an S&OP framework
- Strong commercial awareness and understanding of supply chain dynamics
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a high level of attention to detail
Desirable
- Experience with forecasting tools (e.g., Anaplan, Blue Yonder, SAP IBP)
- Knowledge of UK retail supply chains
- Previous experience in a contract or interim planning role
At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.
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