Sales and Operations Planning Manager

Location: Suffolk Sector: Complex Food Manufacturing Salary: £60k + benefits The Opportunity An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) Manager to join a growing and fast-paced food manufacturing business. Reporting directly to the Managing Director and forming part of the Senior Leadership Team, this role will lead and transform end-to-end supply chain operations to deliver exceptional customer service, operational efficiency, compliance and continuous improvement across the business. This is a strategic and hands-on leadership role responsible for aligning demand, supply, production, warehousing and logistics functions to support the company’s long-term growth objectives. Key Responsibilities Sales & Operations Planning * Lead and manage the S&OP process to ensure alignment between sales forecasts, operational capacity and business objectives. * Develop accurate supply and demand forecasts to optimise service levels and minimise waste. * Drive cross-functional collaboration between commercial, operations, procurement and logistics teams. Supply Chain & Logistics * Oversee end-to-end supply chain operations including inventory management, warehousing, transport and logistics. * Manage relationships with third-party logistics (3PL) providers and external warehouse partners. * Ensure efficient stock management, resource planning and production scheduling across the business. Data, Systems & Performance * Utilise ERP systems and data analytics to monitor supply chain performance and identify improvement opportunities. * Analyse trends, KPIs and operational data to support decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives. * Lead cost reduction and service improvement projects while maintaining operational excellence. Leadership & Continuous Improvement * Lead, develop and support high-performing teams across the supply chain function. * Champion a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement. * Support business transformation initiatives and drive operational efficiencies through lean and digital improvements. * Work closely with senior stakeholders to support strategic planning and business growth. Skills & Experience Required * Previous senior leadership experience within complex food manufacturing or FMCG environments. * Strong understanding of end-to-end supply chain operations including planning, inventory, logistics and warehousing. * Proven experience leading S&OP and demand planning processes. * Strong commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and delivering cost efficiencies. * Excellent analytical, forecasting and problem-solving skills. * Experience using ERP systems alongside strong Excel and Microsoft Office skills. * Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels. * Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced and evolving manufacturing environment. Personal Attributes * Strategic thinker with strong operational execution skills. * Calm and solutions-focused under pressure. * Highly organised with excellent planning and prioritisation skills. * Passionate about leadership, team development and continuous improvement. * Resilient, adaptable and commercially driven. What’s on Offer * Opportunity to join a growing and ambitious food manufacturing business. * Senior leadership position with genuine influence across the organisation. * Competitive salary and benefits package. * Long-term career development opportunities within a dynamic environment