Head of Planning
FRS Recruitment ·www.frsrecruitment.com
Apply directMy client, a leading Irish FMCG manufacturing business is seeking to appoint a Head of Planning to lead and develop its end-to-end planning function within a complex, high-volume production environment.
This is a senior leadership opportunity for an experienced planning professional with a strong background in FMCG supply chain operations, S&OP, production planning and cross-functional stakeholder management. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping planning strategy, driving operational performance and supporting the continued growth and evolution of the business.
This role is based on site in Co. Cavan and offers a generous remuneration and benefits package for the right Planner
The Opportunity
This is a key leadership role within a fast-paced FMCG manufacturing environment, responsible for leading the planning function across forecasting, production planning and S&OP.
Working closely with teams across Operations, Supply Chain, Commercial and Procurement, you will ensure customer demand is met while balancing service, efficiency and operational capability.
The successful candidate will play an important role in driving planning performance, improving processes and supporting the ongoing growth of the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the end-to-end planning and scheduling function across short, medium and long-term planning horizons
- Own and drive the S&OP process, ensuring alignment across commercial, operational and supply chain functions
- Translate demand forecasts into achievable production and supply plans
- Develop robust production schedules that maximise operational efficiency and service levels
- Lead scenario planning for demand volatility, capacity constraints, promotions and NPD activity
- Monitor planning performance through KPIs, reporting and analytics, identifying opportunities for continuous improvement
- Drive improvements in planning systems, governance and standard operating procedures
- Support strategic supply chain initiatives, business continuity planning and long-term capacity planning
- Lead, coach and develop a high-performing planning team
- Build strong cross-functional relationships and influence decision-making through data-led insights
Experience & Qualifications
- 12+ years’ experience in FMCG supply chain, production planning or scheduling
- Proven leadership experience managing planning teams, including team managers
- Strong expertise in S&OP processes and integrated planning
- Experience operating within high-volume manufacturing environments
- Advanced Excel capability and strong analytical skills
- Experience with ERP/planning systems such as SAP, IBP, APO or similar
- Relevant qualification in Supply Chain, Operations, Food or related discipline desirable
Key Skills
- Strong commercial and operational understanding
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing capability
- Data-driven decision-making approach
- Strong problem-solving and organisational skills
- Ability to perform effectively under pressure in a dynamic environment
- Collaborative leadership style with strong communication skills
- Continuous improvement mindset with the ability to challenge and enhance existing processes
If you feel that you fulfil the above qualifications please apply today with your CV. If you have any further questions please contact Rachael Pando of FRS Recruitment
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