Supply Chain & Planning Manager

About the role

This position sits at the heart of a fast‑growing FMCG manufacturing business. Reporting directly to senior operations management, you will own the planning, procurement and new product development functions, shaping strategy while delivering day‑to‑day operations.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the planning team to manage capacity planning, demand forecasting and the full S&OP process.
• Maintain optimal stock levels, balancing availability with cost efficiency and ensuring stock accuracy.
• Identify capacity constraints with commercial and operations colleagues and develop corrective solutions.
• Develop and execute a purchasing strategy, particularly for packaging, while embedding ethical and sustainable practices.
• Verify that goods received and dispatched meet quality, packaging and regulatory standards, including Dangerous Goods/IATA requirements.
• Support feasibility studies for new products and own the on‑time, on‑spec, on‑cost launch of new and revised items.
• Oversee documentation for new products, materials and suppliers to ensure full traceability for audit and quality purposes.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a Supply Chain or Planning Manager within an FMCG or manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a small team.
• Strong analytical mindset with a track record of influencing senior stakeholders.
• Experience managing end‑to‑end S&OP, capacity planning and procurement processes.
• Commitment to ethical sourcing and regulatory compliance.

Required skills

• S&OP process management
• Capacity planning
• Demand forecasting
• Procurement strategy development
• Regulatory compliance (Dangerous Goods/IATA)

What we offer

• Competitive salary £55,000‑£65,000 per year plus up to 5% performance bonus.
• On‑site role in Chelmsford, Monday‑Friday, 40 hrs/week.
• Opportunity to shape supply‑chain strategy in a values‑led SME.
• Supportive environment with a focus on continuous improvement.