Supply Chain Manager - Confectionary / National Accounts

About This Role

This role involves managing the entire supply chain, from suppliers to distribution centers and branches, for confectionary and national accounts. The manager will use data and strong supplier relationships to optimize inventory, ensure product availability, and meet service level targets. The position requires leading a team, driving continuous improvement, and effectively planning for promotions, seasonal demand, and new product launches.

Responsibilities

• Manage stockholding levels to achieve service level targets while minimizing excess inventory
• Ensure effective intake planning and adherence to correct processes
• Manage delisted stock and overstocks in line with company targets
• Build strong relationships with key suppliers through a Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) approach
• Identify seasonal demand and sales trends, ensuring proactive plans are in place to maximize availability and sales
• Provide clear insights and prompts to Supply Planners to support effective decision-making
• Ensure new product launches are planned effectively to maximize sales and minimize handling across branches and Distribution Centres
• Regularly review Route to Market (RTM) to optimize costs and service levels
• Ensure promotion forecasts are completed on time, review forecast accuracy, escalate issues, and support post-promotion clearance plans
• Lead reviews of underperforming suppliers and oversee root cause analysis to address issues and improve performance
• Work with IT to resolve system issues and ensure appropriate escalation
• Lead, coach, and develop your team through regular one-to-ones, annual reviews, and talent development
• Manage supplier relationships and support the delivery of category profit plans, sales plans, and budgets
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legal, regulatory, and ethical requirements

Requirements

• Extensive experience in FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) and experience leading a team
• A proven ability to work autonomously, solve problems, and make sound commercial decisions
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, produce reports, and maintain accurate records
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to turn insights into effective supply chain plans
• A good understanding of relevant markets and industry developments
• The ability to work flexibly, adapt your approach, and manage competing priorities
• Experience building effective relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders
• The ability to develop people, improve team performance, and deliver against business objectives