Head of Planning

Head of Planning - Forecasting & Planning Data Technologist - Global Supply Chain

Location: East Sussex/London/Hybrid/Flexible
Sector: Advanced Supply Chain & Inventory Optimisation
Package: Competitive salary + bonus + benefits

Are you a data-driven forecasting professional with a passion for designing future-proof planning models? Do you thrive in fast-paced, complex environments where your skills can make a direct and measurable impact?

A rapidly expanding organisation at the forefront of global supply chain innovation is seeking a sharp, technically skilled forecasting and materials planning expert to revolutionise their approach to stock optimisation. With thousands of SKUs across international markets, this is your chance to turn a living, breathing supply chain into a digitally orchestrated system that anticipates demand and automates routine decisions.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Build and lead forecasting and planning processes that reduce manual interference and maximise forecast accuracy.
• Develop statistical and AI-driven models, incorporating time-series data, market signals, and stakeholder intelligence to enhance planning outcomes.
• Create tools that allow non-technical users to input valuable business insights without disrupting the modelling framework.
• Drive improved visibility on KPIs such as stock availability, forecast error, and inventory turnover.
• Enable strategic planning across product lines, geographies, and suppliers through intelligent ERP/MRP integration.
• Automate routine planning tasks to free up planners to focus on strategic decisions.
• Be the architect of a "digital twin" for the supply network - modelling different scenarios and observing real-world results.

What You Bring:

• 3+ years in a data-heavy demand forecasting, material planning, or supply chain role.
• Academic background in a numerical field such as Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, or Applied Mathematics.
• Strong Python coding ability - particularly for data manipulation, modelling, and statistical forecasting.
• Experience with ERP or MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and a solid grasp of inventory principles.
• Practical understanding of supply chains including warehousing, logistics, and distribution.
• Excellent communication skills - able to convey technical information clearly to non-technical stakeholders.
• A mindset for continuous improvement, automation, and process excellence.

Bonus Points For:

• Familiarity with SQL or time-series databases (e.g., kdb+, InfluxDB).
• Experience applying lean principles to supply chain design.
• Prior involvement in rolling out integrated planning tools or systems.

Why Join?
You'll be joining an organisation that values innovation and experimentation. Here, your ideas aren't just welcome - they're essential. You'll be given the freedom to shape the future of planning and the tools to make it happen.