Supply & Demand Planning Manager

The Supply & Demand Planning Manager is responsible for leading the supply and demand planning, inventory management, logistics operations, and supply continuity across Saudi Arabia. The role ensures accurate demand forecasting, optimal inventory levels, superior customer service performance, and efficient logistics execution while maintaining supply chain costs within business targets. This position serves as a critical bridge between Commercial, Supply Planning, Procurement, Logistics, and Third-Party Logistics providers to ensure product availability, stock freshness, and operational excellence throughout the supply chain network.

About the Role

The Supply & Demand Planning Manager is responsible for leading the supply and demand planning, inventory management, logistics operations, and supply continuity across Saudi Arabia.

Responsibilities

Demand Planning and Forecasting

• Lead the monthly Demand Planning and S&OP cycle to align demand forecasts with supply capabilities.
• Develop and maintain forecasting models using sales trends, market insights, promotions, and historical data.
• Monitor forecast performance and implement corrective actions to improve forecast accuracy.
• Prepare and communicate demand forecasts, inventory outlooks, and business recommendations to management.
• Support Annual Operating Planning (AOP) through scenario analysis and volume projections.

Inventory Management and Supply Availability

• Maintain optimal inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing excess stock.
• Monitor inventory health, Days of Stock (DOS), stock freshness, and slow-moving inventory.
• Implement inventory optimization initiatives to reduce aging stock, write-offs, and expiry risks.
• Ensure inventory accuracy and effective inventory control processes.
• Collaborate with Procurement and Supply Planning teams to achieve target service levels and OTIF performance.

Logistics and Warehouse Operations

• Manage warehousing, distribution, transportation, and inbound logistics operations.
• Monitor logistics and warehouse KPIs, operational costs, and service level performance.
• Optimize warehouse capacity utilization, transportation resources, and distribution efficiency.
• Oversee customs clearance and inbound supply activities to ensure uninterrupted product flow.
• Lead operational improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, service quality, and efficiency.

Cost Management and Process Optimization

• Manage supply chain operational budgets and control logistics-related expenditures.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Participate in feasibility studies and supply chain network optimization projects.

Third-Party Partner Management

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with logistics providers, warehouse operators, and suppliers.
• Monitor third-party performance against agreed KPIs, SLAs, and contractual commitments.
• Conduct regular business reviews and drive continuous improvement programs with partners.
• Ensure service continuity while optimizing operational performance and costs.
• Team Leadership and Capability Building
• Lead, coach, and develop the teams.
• Set performance objectives and monitor achievement.
• Identify capability gaps and implement training.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8–10 years of Supply Chain experience within the FMCG sector.
• Proven experience in Demand Planning, Logistics, Warehousing, and Inventory Management.
• Strong understanding of S&OP processes and demand forecasting methodologies.
• Experience managing third-party logistics providers (3PLs).
• Hands-on experience with ERP, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and Supply Chain Planning tools.
• Strong knowledge of the Saudi FMCG market and distribution environment.
• Fluent in English; Arabic is preferred.

Required Skills

• Vendor Management
• Negotiating Skills
• Procurement Material and Vendor Management
• Global Markets and Commodities Business Trends
• Contract & Vendor management
• Communicating effectively
• Self and Team Management
• Planning & Decision Making
• Customer Centricity
• Ownership & Result Orientation

Preferred Skills

• Professional certifications such as APICS, Six Sigma, PMP, or TQM are highly desirable.

We are committed to diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices.