Demand Planning Manager

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.