Demand & Supply Planner - FTC

Gleeson Recruitment Group



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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