Planning Manager | FMCG / Food Manufacturing
ConnectAPAC are partnered with a high‐growth food manufacturing business that's investing heavily in its operations and supply chain capability.
This is a newly created, standalone role reporting to the Operations Director, with full ownership of end‐to‐end planning across production, demand, inventory, and labour.
It's well suited to a senior planner looking to step into a broader role where they can drive transformation, build structure, and influence better ways of working across operations and supply chain.
You'll play a key role in aligning the business through a structured S&OP process while driving performance across a fast‐paced, short shelf‐life environment.
The business services a diverse customer base across retail grocery, P&C, and independent channels, adding a layer of complexity to demand and supply planning.
Key responsibilities
* Own and optimise the site production plan in line with demand, capacity, and operational constraints
* Lead and embed a robust S&OP process with cross‐functional stakeholders
* Develop and manage rolling demand forecasts with a focus on improving accuracy
* Oversee inventory, WIP, and finished goods to balance service and waste
* Drive performance across key metrics including service, forecast accuracy, and working capital
* Identify and deliver continuous improvement initiatives across planning and scheduling
* Proactively manage supply and production risks, adjusting plans to maintain service and minimise disruption
* Maintain planning data integrity and improve systems/processes to support decision‐making
* Lead and develop a small planning/inventory function
* Implement structured labour planning across multiple operational departments
* Partner closely with sales, operations, procurement, and logistics to ensure alignment
About you
* Experience in supply chain, demand, or production planning within FMCG, food, or a high‐volume manufacturing environment
* Strong exposure to S&OP and forecasting processes
* Experience building or improving planning processes within a growing or changing environment
* Background managing inventory in a short shelf‐life or fast‐moving environment
* Ability to influence senior stakeholders across operations, sales, and finance
* Comfortable operating in a fast‐paced, evolving environment
* Data‐driven with strong analytical capability
This role would suit someone looking to step into a broader, end‐to‐end planning leadership position within a business that is scaling quickly and offers real scope to shape processes and drive impact.
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