At a Glance
- Tasks: Own demand forecasting and inventory planning to maximise product availability.
- Company: Join VPZ, the UK's leading vape retailer with over 190 locations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate across teams and drive commercial success in a vibrant retail setting.
- Why this job: Be a key player in a fast-growing industry and make impactful decisions.
- Qualifications: Experience in demand or inventory planning, strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
About us
VPZ is the UK’s number one vape retailer. Since opening our first store in Edinburgh, we've expanded to over 190 locations across the UK and we're not stopping there. We are known for setting and driving the standards within the vape industry, this is a great time to join us as we continue to grow.
About the Role
We are seeking a commercially minded Demand Planner to own the end to end forecasting, inventory planning, and stock allocation process across our retail estate. You will bridge the gap between data and execution, translating sales trends, seasonality, and promotional activity into actionable plans that maximise product availability while minimising excess stockholding costs. This is a pivotal cross functional role, acting as the central hub of expertise to align Buying, Finance, Operations, Warehouse, and Store teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Demand Forecasting: Develop and maintain rolling sales forecasts at SKU, category, and store level. Monitor forecast accuracy and continually refine planning methodologies.
- Inventory Optimisation: Determine optimal stock levels across stores and warehouses. Identify slow moving or at risk inventory and recommend markdown/exit strategies to protect cash flow.
- Allocation & Replenishment: Own stock allocation strategies for new launches, promotions, and daily replenishment based on store performance and local trading patterns.
- Commercial Analysis: Analyse sell through rates, stock turn, and weeks of cover. Build dashboards to present actionable insights and forecast variances to senior stakeholders.
- Cross Functional Collaboration: Partner with Buying, Finance, and Logistics to ensure stock commitments align with operational capacity and financial budgets.
What We Are Looking For
- Proven Experience: Background in Demand Planning, Merchandise Planning, Supply Chain, or Inventory Planning (ideally within a retail environment).
- Analytical Mindset: Advanced Excel skills and the ability to interpret large datasets to drive commercial decisions. Experience with ERP or specialized inventory management systems is highly desirable.
- Retail Acumen: Strong understanding of core KPIs such as stock turn, sell through, availability, and weeks of cover.
- Communication Skills: Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across warehouse, retail, and head office teams.
- Attributes: Highly organised, detail oriented, and a proactive problem solver.
Please ensure you apply with an up-to-date CV. Applicants must be 18 years old or above, any subsequent job offer is subject to pre-employment screening and right to work checks.
Operations Manager-Demand Planning in Newbridge employer: CCHG Ltd
VPZ is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Edinburgh where you can thrive as a Finance Graduate. With a clear progression pathway and hands-on experience alongside finance leadership, you'll be empowered to grow your career while enjoying generous employee benefits, including significant discounts and incentives. Join us at this exciting time of expansion and be part of a team that values innovation and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager-Demand Planning in Newbridge
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like CCHG Ltd and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at CCHG Ltd!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like CCHG Ltd keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager-Demand Planning in Newbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to CCHG Ltd:This is your chance to really connect with the team at CCHG Ltd. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at CCHG Ltd
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with CCHG Ltd.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show CCHG Ltd that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at CCHG Ltd. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
