Permanent | FMCG | Start ASAP
We are seeking an experienced Commercial Operations Manager to lead and optimise end-to-end supply chain operations within a fast-paced FMCG environment. This is a senior, hands-on role responsible for delivering best-in-class service, driving operational excellence, and ensuring product availability while controlling cost and waste.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Commercial Operations, you will take ownership of supply and demand planning, customer service, stock management, logistics, and supplier performance. You’ll play a critical role in aligning commercial priorities with operational execution, leading a high-performing team and driving continuous improvement across the supply chain.
Key Responsibilities
Supply & Demand Planning
Lead demand planning in collaboration with Commercial and Finance teams
Build and maintain accurate forecasts using customer data, promotions, market trends, and historical performance
Balance customer service, capacity, cost, and waste
Identify supply risks and develop mitigation plans
Customer Service & Order Management
Oversee daily and weekly customer order processing
Maintain order files, delivery calendars, SKU data, and product set-ups
Communicate availability, shortages, and delivery risks
Support high service levels and OTIF performance
Stock Management
Own stock strategy across packhouses, production sites, and co-packers
Report daily stock and monitor stock cover, ageing, and shelf life
Investigate discrepancies and support stock counts and reconciliations
Drive waste reduction and working capital optimisation
Supplier, Procurement & Production Coordination
Liaise with suppliers on availability, lead times, and delivery schedules
Support procurement decisions, NPD launches, and promotions
Create and track purchase orders
Monitor supplier performance including OTIF, quality, and cost
Communicate and follow up on production plans
Logistics
Manage inbound and outbound logistics end-to-end
Coordinate transport bookings, delivery notes, and ASNs
Resolve delivery issues and performance failures
Manage transport partners, 3PLs, and warehousing
Drive logistics cost-reduction initiatives
Ensure compliance with customer and operational requirements
Operational Excellence
Lead S&OP and reporting cycles
Develop KPIs and dashboards to measure performance
Support finance with month-end reconciliation and queries
Implement process improvements, automation, and better data governance
People Leadership
Manage, coach, and develop the Commercial Operations team
Foster strong cross-functional collaboration
Build a high-performance, accountable culture
Compliance & Sustainability
Ensure regulatory and industry compliance
Promote sustainable sourcing and supply chain practices
Lead initiatives to reduce waste and carbon footprint
About You
5+ years’ experience in supply chain, planning, logistics, or operations within FMCG
Proven people management experience
Experience with short shelf-life or fresh/chilled food supply chains preferred
Strong forecasting, inventory management, and logistics expertise
Process-driven mindset with a track record of continuous improvement
Commercially minded and customer-focused
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Analytical problem solver with strong attention to detail
Advanced Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint skills
Clean UK/EU driving licence
Flexible with working hours, including rota’d weekend work
Working Pattern
* Monday to Friday
* 6:00am–3:00pm or 8:00am–5:00pm
* 1-hour unpaid lunch break
* Weekend cover on a rotational basis