Sales Operations Planning Manager

Are you a commercially minded planning leader ready to drive operational strategy across a global consumer brand? Our client, a market leader in the premium FMCG space, is seeking a Sales & Operations Planning Manager to lead cross-functional planning and drive business-critical decisions across their EMEA operations.

The Company

Our client is a household name within the premium beverage sector, known for its bold brand, high-growth trajectory, and dynamic presence in hundreds of countries worldwide. With a culture rooted in performance, energy, and innovation, they’ve carved out a distinct position in the global market and continue to set trends across the industry. Their EMEA HQ in London is a fast-paced, collaborative environment where ideas are actioned quickly, and cross-functional alignment is key to success. You’ll be joining a business that invests in its people, rewards ownership, and encourages entrepreneurial thinking.

The Role

As Senior S&OP Manager, you’ll take ownership of the regional Sales & Operations Planning process for ~50% of the business, playing a crucial role in balancing supply and demand across the EMEA region. Working closely with demand planning, procurement, finance, and commercial teams, as well as external partners, you’ll lead the S&OP cycle from insight to action, supporting long-term growth and operational efficiency. This is a high-visibility role with real impact on business direction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and Own S&OP Process: Drive the monthly S&OP cycle and weekly Sales & Operations Execution (S&OE) for ~50% of EMEA sales. Prepare and deliver key reporting packs, including demand, supply, inventory, and stock metrics.
• Executive Engagement & Presentation: Facilitate high-level S&OP and Supply Management meetings. Present strategic insights to senior leaders and influence business decisions.
• Data Analysis & Storytelling: Consolidate complex datasets into actionable insights to support proactive decision-making and risk mitigation.
• Forecasting & Budget Alignment: Manage capacity, material requirements, and budgetary planning. Ensure alignment between demand forecasts and business expectations.
• Process Improvement & Governance: Continuously mature S&OP processes and develop KPIs and scorecards (e.g. OTIF, forecast accuracy, inventory turns).
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Build strong partnerships across operations, commercial, and external partners to ensure end-to-end supply chain visibility and coordination.
• Risk Management: Identify supply risks and obsolescence early. Lead resolution planning and escalate when necessary.
• Strategic Influence: Act as a joint owner of the EMEA S&OP process, driving alignment, accountability, and long-term value creation.

What We’re Looking For

• Extensive experience in S&OP or Integrated Business Planning (IBP)
• Strong understanding of planning KPIs, budget alignment, and supply chain transformation
• Proven stakeholder management at senior and executive levels
• Strong ERP system knowledge (SAP APO/ SAP IBP or equivalent)
• Excellent presentation, data analysis, and communication skills
• Ability to work at both strategic and tactical planning levels
• A proactive, commercially minded team player with high attention to detail
• A degree in a business or numerate discipline is desirable
• Flexibility to collaborate across time zones and travel occasionally

Why Join?

• Global Brand – Join a well-established business with a powerful presence and strong growth trajectory
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Engage with senior leaders across regions and functions
• Strategic Impact – Lead high-stakes planning initiatives that shape operational and financial decisions
• Room to Grow – Work in a culture that values innovation, pace, and continuous improvement
• Strong Package – Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and real progression opportunities

Interested in playing a key role in one of the most dynamic operations teams in FMCG? Contact kieran.tudsbury@advocate-group.co.uk.

The Advocate Group is a leading recruitment partner, based in the UK, to the FMCG and consumer product sectors. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.

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