Demand Planner in Sevenoaks

The Bel Group is a major player in the food industry through portions of dairy, fruit and plant-based products, and one of the world leaders in branded cheeses. Its portfolio of differentiated and internationally recognized brands includes The Laughing Cow®, Kiri®, Babybel®, Boursin® Nurishh®, Pom'Potes® and GoGo squeeZ®, as well as some 30 local brands. Together, these brands helped the Group generate sales of €3.74 billion in 2024.

Do you want to join a company with strong brands that puts consumers and responsibility at the heart of the decision‑making process? Then Bel is made for you! Are you bold, pragmatic, and determined? Do you want to contribute to the transformation of an international agri‑food company? Then come join us and measure the impact of your talent and energy in realizing an ambitious and sustainable company project!

About the Role: Based in the UK, you will be responsible for the demand planning of the United Kingdom and Ireland where you will optimise the demand forecasts and associated processes to support the highest possible customer service level, within business capabilities. You will work to champion the Sales and Operating Planning Process (S&OP) in line with best industry practices, analysing and reporting on load and capacity, circulating information as required. You will positively influence demand forecasts to optimise stock holding, increase production stability and in‑store availability whilst consulting with the local Sales Team on future demand projections and stock availability. You will play a key role in growing the Bel Northern Europe business and report directly to the UK Demand Planning Manager.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provides demand forecast and results analysis, working with Sales & Marketing teams to improve forecast accuracy and customer service levels.
• Ensuring accurate forecasts are provided to Central Supply Chain using the Group tool (JDA Manugistics / IBP / Kinexis Maestro) to agreed deadlines.
• Analyses past sales performance versus forecasts and report variances to relevant parties.
• Responsible for entering the volume budget figures into JDA Manugistics / Maestro.
• Improving and redefining the demand planning process – to develop forecast processes for each of the major accounts working with the Key Account Managers to ensure the maximum level of forecast accuracy.
• Responsible for monitoring and updating distress stock & introducing improvements to minimise going forward.
• Leading forecast meetings (S&OP) once a week with the Key Account Managers to address forecasts and promotional volumes on a 1‑2‑1 basis.
• To develop and continually review a Supply Chain Strategy by account ensuring the best possible levels of return in terms of service.
• Co‑Chairing demand meetings (S&OP) once a week to review supply chain performance and agree future strategies/processes and to ascertain any major issues, present & future.
• Participate and input into relevant steps of the group S&OP process, working closely with all business functions.
• Produce inventory reports and reviews performance against target and works with the logistics provider to optimise the inventory profile and flow.
• Collaborating with retailers to align on demand forecasts for baseline and promotional activities.

Skills/Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years demand planning experience.
• Demonstrated ability of providing accurate forecasts.
• Ability to influence key stakeholders – Sales/Marketing teams.
• Knowledge of demand planning in the Nordics or willingness to learn the complexities of managing 5 different countries.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Willingness & ability to travel to Malmo.
• Proficiency in forecasting and data analysis tools (JDA Manugistics, SAP and IBP, Maestro is a plus).
• Proven track record of managing JBP cycles with Retailers.

Profile: We're excited to meet candidates with a growth mindset, those who are analytical and solution‑focused in their approach. Particularly those who are customer focused and have genuine passion for managing demand forecasts, optimise inventory levels, and contribute to the overall efficiency and success of the Northern Europe Cluster supply chain. If you're eager to be part of a high growth company and lead in a dynamic industry, we'd be thrilled to have you apply.