Overview
Location: Suffolk
Sector: Complex Food Manufacturing
Salary: £60k + benefits
The Opportunity
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) Manager to join a growing and fast-paced food manufacturing business. Reporting directly to the Managing Director and forming part of the Senior Leadership Team, this role will lead and transform end-to-end supply chain operations to deliver exceptional customer service, operational efficiency, compliance and continuous improvement across the business.
This is a strategic and hands-on leadership role responsible for aligning demand, supply, production, warehousing and logistics functions to support the company’s long-term growth objectives.
Responsibilities
* Sales & Operations Planning – Lead and manage the S&OP process to ensure alignment between sales forecasts, operational capacity and business objectives.
* Develop accurate supply and demand forecasts to optimise service levels and minimise waste.
* Drive cross-functional collaboration between commercial, operations, procurement and logistics teams.
* Supply Chain & Logistics – Oversee end-to-end supply chain operations including inventory management, warehousing, transport and logistics.
* Manage relationships with third-party logistics (3PL) providers and external warehouse partners.
* Ensure efficient stock management, resource planning and production scheduling across the business.
* Data, Systems & Performance – Utilise ERP systems and data analytics to monitor supply chain performance and identify improvement opportunities.
* Analyse trends, KPIs and operational data to support decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives.
* Lead cost reduction and service improvement projects while maintaining operational excellence.
* Leadership & Continuous Improvement – Lead, develop and support high-performing teams across the supply chain function.
* Champion a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
* Support business transformation initiatives and drive operational efficiencies through lean and digital improvements.
* Work closely with senior stakeholders to support strategic planning and business growth.
Skills & Experience Required
* Previous senior leadership experience within complex food manufacturing or FMCG environments.
* Strong understanding of end-to-end supply chain operations including planning, inventory, logistics and warehousing.
* Proven experience leading S&OP and demand planning processes.
* Strong commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and delivering cost efficiencies.
* Excellent analytical, forecasting and problem-solving skills.
* Experience using ERP systems alongside strong Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
* Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced and evolving manufacturing environment.
Personal Attributes
* Strategic thinker with strong operational execution skills.
* Calm and solutions-focused under pressure.
* Highly organised with excellent planning and prioritisation skills.
* Passionate about leadership, team development and continuous improvement.
* Resilient, adaptable and commercially driven.
What’s on Offer
* Opportunity to join a growing and ambitious food manufacturing business.
* Senior leadership position with genuine influence across the organisation.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Long-term career development opportunities within a dynamic environment.
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