Supply Chain Manager

ZipRecruiter; Wealden; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

Job Description

Primarily based in Uckfield, this can be a hybrid role, whereas we also have offices in Brighton and Cranleigh to work from.

About Living Planet Ltd

We are a dynamic natural health company that has grown steadily since our founding in 2016, providing comprehensive omnichannel solutions across the UK, Ireland, and EU markets. We design and manufacture our own premium wellness brands including Planet Paleo, Mushrooms For Life, Botanicals For Life, and Living Nutrition, while also proudly representing distinguished international brands such as Australian Bush Flowers, Cardiosmile, and Osi Magnesium. Our extensive portfolio now encompasses over 500 SKUs, offering one of the most comprehensive ranges in the natural health sector.

With a robust presence in the natural health sector, we partner with over 450 independent health stores and pharmacies across the UK, including prestigious retailers such as Wholefoods Market, Planet Organic, and Holland & Barrett. Our international reach spans 12 countries through established distributor networks, complemented by a fast-growing digital presence across seven Shopify stores and key e-tailers.

As we continue to grow and evolve, we're building a team of passionate individuals who share our vision for the future of natural health.

Job Purpose

To lead and optimise the company supply chain, ensuring seamless coordination of shipments (including international), procurement, production scheduling, and compliance documentation. The role will drive cost savings, sustainability, and on-time delivery while mitigating risks in a complex logistics environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. International Logistics & Compliance
   • Manage import/export processes, including customs clearance, tariffs, and Incoterms compliance.
   • Coordinate international shipments (air, sea, road), ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.
   • Oversee Certificates of Inspection (COIs), commercial invoices, and regulatory documentation for cross-border trade.
   • Ensure compliance with international trade regulations (e.g., REACH, FSC, ISO standards).
2. Procurement & Supplier Management
   • Source and negotiate with global suppliers, ensuring competitive pricing and ethical standards.
   • Monitor supplier performance (lead times, quality) and diversify sourcing to reduce dependency risks.
   • Develop and implement processes for stock forecasting, management and ordering to minimise wastage and improve cashflow management.
   • Ensure all product documents are up to date including BOMs, Works Orders, Product Specs and any other relevant documents.
3. Production Planning & Scheduling
   • Manage production schedules across all sites and contract manufacturers, ensuring all stakeholders from operators to sales are aware of schedules and have visibility as per their requirements.
   • Develop detailed production plans aligned with sales forecasts and raw material availability.
   • Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimise schedules, minimise downtime, and meet deadlines.
   • Implement demand planning tools to balance inventory levels with production capacity.
4. Inventory Management
   • Maintain optimal stock levels across multiple locations (including safety stock for international lead times).
   • Lead cycle counts, audits, and WMS improvements to ensure accuracy.
   • Reduce waste through lean inventory practices (e.g., JIT for high-turnover items) and develop practices for utilisation of short dated stock.
5. Continuous Improvement & Reporting
   • Analyse KPIs: OTIF, landed costs, inventory turnover, production efficiency.
   • Identify cost-saving opportunities (e.g., freight consolidation, duty optimisation, contract negotiation).
   • Lead stock management software & training (Unleashed).
   • Provide a series of analytical reports.

Skills & Qualifications

• Essential:
• 5+ years in supply chain management, including import/export documentation (COIs, BOLs, etc.).
• Expertise in Inventory management systems (e.g., Unleashed).
• Proven ability to coordinate with 3PLs, freight forwarders, and customs brokers.
• Experience managing Bill of materials for multiple products.
• Desirable:
• Certification in CIPS, CSCP, or IATA/FIATA for logistics.
• Experience working with food ingredients and food supplements.
• Knowledge of international trade regulations (e.g., UKCA, CE, USDA).
• Organic certification and/or other mass balance required certifications.

Character

• Ability to lead and take responsibility for the full supply chain, managing relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to analyse existing systems and put in a plan to improve and develop.
• A strong communicator.