Demand Planning Manager
SF Recruitment are working with a leading B2B distributor to recruit a Demand Planning Manager to own forecasting, replenishment, and inventory planning across a multi-category, fast-moving business. This role plays a key part in enabling growth by ensuring the right products are available at the right time - without over-stocking.
Responsibilities
* Lead short-, mid-, and long-term demand forecasting at SKU and category level
* Build and maintain rolling 18-month forecasts and 3-year category plans
* Translate demand plans into purchase and production requirements
* Own Open-to-Buy, inventory health, and stock optimisation across channels
* Identify risks, gaps, and opportunities in forecasts and recommend actions
* Drive continuous improvement in forecasting accuracy and planning processes
* Support range reviews, product lifecycle decisions, and in-season adjustments
* Maintain and optimise ERP replenishment parameters in line with demand shifts
* Act as the planning link between Sales, Category, Operations, Finance, and Marketing
* Incorporate promotions, launches, and seasonal activity into demand plans
* Present insights and recommendations to senior stakeholders
* Lead and develop a team of demand planners or analysts
What success look like:
* High forecast accuracy and strong availability performance
* Inventory held within plan with healthy stock turn
* Clear, actionable demand insight supporting commercial decisions
What we're looking for:
* Strong demand or supply planning background, ideally in consumer goods, FMCG, or seasonal product environments
* Advanced Excel, Power BI, and forecasting tool experience
* ERP planning experience (Dynamics 365 / Navision or similar)
* Confident communicator who can influence cross-functional teams
* Strategic thinker who's comfortable rolling up their sleeves
* Experience leading or mentoring planning teams
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