Senior Demand Planner

Forsyth Barnes

Manchester

GBP 40,000 - 60,000

Job description

Job Title: Senior Demand Planner

Salary: £45,000 - £60,000

Industry: Cosmetics
Location: Manchester - Hybrid Model

Job Overview:

We are partnering with a cosmetics company to find an experienced and proactive Senior Demand Planner. This role is perfect for someone with a proven track record in demand planning who is ready to take on greater responsibility in driving the company's forecasting, inventory management, and supply chain optimization. As a Senior Demand Planner, you will lead the demand planning process, ensuring alignment with commercial objectives, product launches, and market demands, while mentoring junior team members.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop and manage detailed demand forecasts by analyzing sales trends, market conditions, and promotional activities, ensuring accuracy and alignment with business goals.
Oversee inventory levels across multiple product lines, collaborating with the supply chain and procurement teams to balance stock availability and minimize excess inventory or stockouts.
Work closely with sales, marketing, and operations teams to drive demand planning strategies that support product launches, promotions, and sales initiatives.
Performance Metrics: Monitor and analyze key demand planning metrics (forecast accuracy, inventory turnover, etc.), providing actionable insights and recommendations for continuous improvement.
Lead the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process, ensuring alignment between demand plans, production schedules, and inventory management strategies.
Take ownership of the demand planning systems and tools, ensuring data accuracy, improving processes, and implementing best practices.
Mentor and coach junior demand planners, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous development.
Manage demand planning for new product launches, discontinuations, and product transitions, ensuring minimal disruption to the supply chain.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business, Economics, or a related field (Master's degree is a plus).
5+ years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or supply chain management (preferably in the cosmetics or FMCG sectors).
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to interpret large data sets and drive strategic decisions.
Proven experience leading demand planning initiatives and mentoring team members, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, with experience in cross-functional collaboration.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with demand planning systems (such as SAP, Oracle, or similar software).
Strong understanding of the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process and its role in driving business performance.
Ability to balance strategic thinking with practical execution, ensuring alignment between demand forecasts and commercial objectives.