Demand & Supply Planner - FTC
10 days ago
Coventry
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. By applying you will be registered as a candidate with Gleeson Recruitment Limited. Our Privacy Policy is available on our website and explains how we will use your data