Demand Planning Manager

We are PZ Cussons, a FTSE
250 listed consumer goods business headquartered in Manchester, UK, employing around 2,600 people worldwide. Our purpose is For everyone, for life, for good and sustainability and wellbeing of people, families, and communities are at the heart of everything we do. Since 1884 we have created products in Hygiene, Baby, and Beauty categories with trusted brands such as Carex, Cussons Baby, Sanctuary Spa, and St.

Tropez.

• Job title: Demand Planning Manager
• Location: Manchester
• Contract type: Permanent

The Demand Planning Manager will work in the Supply and Demand team, reporting to the Senior Customer Collaboration Manager, and will act as the interface between the Customer Supply Chain and the business. The role involves translating data into meaningful insights, managing multiple projects, and collaborating across functions.

• Develop demand forecasts (operational forecasts) at multiple levels of aggregation for multiple time horizons as part of a demand planning function.
• Review historical sales trends, research demand drivers, prepare forecast data, develop statistical forecast models, and evaluate forecast results.
• Coordinate cross‑functional research activities to reconcile significant variances and refine the forecast model to reflect updated sales and marketing assumptions.
• Interact with sales, marketing, and customer collaborative contacts to understand demand forecast drivers.
• Use the Demand Planning software as the primary forecasting system tool.
• Provide input to the Supply Planning organisation to support developing inventory strategies on existing items, new products, and product phase‑outs.
• Develop and maintain a suite of reports/templates for the IBP (Integrated Business Planning) process to analyse Forecast Changes, YOY movements.
• IBP Process – challenge the ways of working to improve the quality of information/analysis in the various forums (Commercial Planning Meeting, Forecast Consensus Meeting).
• Prepare and maintain relevant Customer Specific Reports to include Stock Holding, Sales Data and Stock Cover where appropriate.
• Track, review and publish promotional sales performance and promotional evaluations for the customers allocated.
• Track, review and action on shelf availability numbers for the customers allocated.
• Support the JSCP’s for the customers allocated.

• Experience in commercial planning within FMCG.
• IT literate with experience of MS Office applications.
• Intermediate or advanced Excel skills essential.
• SAP APO (Advanced Planner and Optimizer) experience essential.
• Deep understanding of Supply Chain and Forecasting principles.
• Strong communication and excellent interpersonal skills. Comfortable liaising with individuals at all levels.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Able to work to strict deadlines and remain calm under pressure.

At PZ Cussons, we value diversity and make sure everyone feels included. We want our team to reflect society and our global customers. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and appreciate that your unique perspective helps us develop brands and create new products for our consumers.

If you need extra support during this process, please inform us so that we can accommodate your needs appropriately. It is important to us that all candidates feel recognised and have a good experience with PZ Cussons as part of our commitment to inclusivity.

PZ Cussons is big enough to make your mark, small enough to make it yours. Apply to join us!