At a Glance
- Tasks: Own the end-to-end supply chain and drive transformation through AI and automation.
- Company: High-growth, sustainability-led consumer brand in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a strong sustainability mission and career advancement potential.
- Why this job: Join a team transforming supply chains with cutting-edge technology and real ownership.
- Qualifications: Experience in supply chain or operations, with a focus on AI and automation.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
We’re working with a high-growth, sustainability-led consumer brand that’s scaling rapidly and investing heavily in the future of its supply chain. This role sits at the intersection of operations, data, and automation, with a clear mandate to modernise how Supply Chain is run end-to-end. This isn’t a traditional supply chain role. It’s about moving beyond spreadsheets, leveraging AI and automation, and building scalable systems that can support rapid growth.
You’ll take ownership of the end-to-end supply plan, from production through to fulfilment, while driving transformation in how the business operates, plans, and makes decisions.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Own End-to-End Supply Chain
- Manage the supply plan from purchasing and production through to fulfilment
- Own supplier and contract manufacturer relationships
- Oversee production schedules, POs, and product availability
- Balance service levels, cost, and working capital across the supply chain
- Drive AI & Automation
- Identify inefficiencies and eliminate manual processes through automation
- Leverage AI and data tools to improve supply visibility and decision-making
- Build scalable systems and processes to support business growth
- Introduce more data-driven approaches to planning, inventory, and supplier performance
- Improve Performance & Commercial Outcomes
- Own inventory control, stock levels, and supply continuity
- Monitor stock health, ageing inventory, and risk exposure
- Drive improvements in service levels, lead times, and operational efficiency
- Deliver cost savings and margin improvements across the supply chain
- Influence & Lead
- Work cross-functionally with Demand Planning, Commercial, and Finance
- Support S&OP processes to align demand and supply
- Communicate risks, trade-offs, and opportunities to stakeholders
- (Senior level) Lead initiatives and support development of junior team members
What They’re Looking For
- Experience
- Background in supply chain, operations, or supply planning within FMCG, retail, or D2C
- Combination of "Blue Chip" Global companies and Fast Growth challenger start-up/scale-ups
- Experience managing suppliers and/or contract manufacturers
- Exposure to end-to-end supply planning and S&OP environments
- AI & Automation (Key Focus)
- Experience implementing automation or AI within supply chain or operations
- Strong interest in applying emerging tech to real operational challenges
- Proven ability to identify inefficiencies and build scalable solutions
- Technical & Analytical
- Advanced Excel / Google Sheets
- Strong data manipulation and analytical capability
- Experience working with supply chain KPIs and performance metrics
- Exposure to ERP, planning systems, or BI tools is a plus
- Mindset
- High ownership and proactive problem-solving approach
- Comfortable in fast-paced, ambiguous environments
- Strong communicator with commercial awareness
- Process-driven with a focus on continuous improvement
Why This Role?
- Be part of a business scaling rapidly with a strong sustainability mission
- Work in a role with real ownership and visibility
- Play a key part in transforming supply chain through AI and automation
- Join a team that values pace, innovation, and impact over process for process’ sake
Process
- Initial screening interview
- Short, automation-focused take-home task (1–2 hours)
- Final stage: practical + panel interview
If you’re a data-driven supply chain professional looking to step into a role with real ownership, transformation exposure, and growth, this is a standout opportunity.
Supply Planning Manager in Slough employer: Grafton Recruitment
Join a dynamic and growing trade-focused distribution business as a Regional Store Sales Representative in the Basingstoke region, where you will enjoy a supportive work culture that values customer engagement and teamwork. With opportunities for professional growth and development, you will have the autonomy to drive sales and build relationships with local contractors and trade customers. Our commitment to employee well-being and a collaborative environment makes us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the trade sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Planning Manager in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those who work at companies you're interested in. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to supply chain management. Think about how you can showcase your experience with AI and automation, as these are hot topics in the field right now.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings! Be proactive and reach out to companies directly through our website. Express your interest in their supply chain roles and highlight how your skills can help them grow.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your fit for the position!
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Planning Manager in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Supply Planning Manager. Highlight your experience in supply chain, especially any work with AI and automation, as this is a key focus for us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about transforming supply chains. Share specific examples of how you've driven improvements or implemented tech solutions in your previous roles.
Showcase Your Data Skills:Since we're all about data-driven decision-making, be sure to highlight your analytical skills. Mention any tools or systems you've used, like ERP or BI tools, that demonstrate your capability in managing supply chain KPIs.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Grafton Recruitment
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's supply chain processes. Understand their approach to AI and automation, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to modernising their operations. Familiarise yourself with their sustainability mission and think about how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
Since this role heavily relies on data manipulation and analysis, prepare to demonstrate your proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets. Bring examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles, especially in supply planning or operations. Be ready to discuss any experience with ERP or BI tools as well.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about past challenges you've faced in supply chain management and how you overcame them. Highlight your ability to identify inefficiencies and implement scalable solutions, particularly through automation.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
As a Supply Planning Manager, you'll need to influence and lead cross-functional teams. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you would communicate risks and opportunities to stakeholders, ensuring you convey your commercial awareness and proactive mindset.
