Job Description
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.
About SF Recruitment