THE ROLE
We are looking for an experienced Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) Manager to lead the definition, implementation, and integration of S&OP processes globally.
The main responsibilities of the role include, but are not limited to:
Developing and implementing the S&OP processes building on the mapping out existing processes to define the target process, adapted to the specificities of each business
- Develop and implement an S&OP strategy, designed in collaboration with other main functions, aligning it with the overall organizational goals and objectives.
- Lead the mapping and documentation of existing processes, identifying gaps and areas for improvement.
- Collaborate within cross-functional teams, including sales, operations, supply chain, finance, and marketing, to gather input and ensure alignment of S&OP activities.
- Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor the effectiveness of S&OP processes and drive continuous improvement.
- Identify and engage external consulting firms, as needed, to provide expertise in implementing best practices and optimizing S&OP processes.
- Develop and deliver S&OP training programs to enhance organizational understanding and adoption of the S&OP process.
Managing the S&OP process to meet the operational targets (see Key Performance Indicators below) across the global network
- Conduct regular reviews of demand forecasts, production plans, and inventory levels to ensure optimal alignment with market demand and business goals.
- Facilitate regular S&OP meetings, ensuring effective communication and collaboration between stakeholders.
- Provide guidance and support to cross-functional teams in implementing S&OP decisions and resolving conflicts.
- Monitor and analyse market trends, customer insights, and competitor activities to enhance demand forecasting accuracy and improve decision-making.
- Report on S&OP performance by region and globally
- Recommend strategic initiatives to optimize operations and customer satisfaction.
CANDIDATE PROFILE
Experience profile:
- Strong expertise in Supply Chain, especially S&OP process: Candidates must bring a proven track record in a similar role, managing a scope across different countries / Business Units ; they will have demonstrated their ability to deliver sustainable results in Supply Chain ; they also will have demonstrated their ability in designing and implementing S&OP processes within a multinational manufacturing or distribution environment
- Strategic depth: Candidates should bring solid strategic thinking abilities and an ability to articulate priorities for their function.
- Process-Orientation: The selected candidate must have a s strong ability to develop Operations processes and policies (S&OP, IBP, etc.) and enable transformation.
- Change Driver: The successful candidate will have a proven track record in acting as a facilitator of change, bringing a change mindset with a focus on processes and cultural change, in both a functional and direct reporting role. Proven track record of successfully collaborating with cross-functional teams and external consulting firms to drive process improvement initiatives. Experience with external consulting firms to implement S&OP process is a plus.
- International dimension: Candidates should be familiar and comfortable with managing global complexity, across multiple countries and regional levels.
- Sector experience: Previous experience within ingredients, FMCG or NovaTaste’s adjacent industries would be preferred, but not a prerequisite for the role. Ideally in B2B and with highly fragmented product portfolio
Competencies:
- A strong desire to make a difference and have an impact.
- Analytical Thinking - Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets and generate actionable insights.
- Collaboration - Successfully collaborates on projects and programs with leadership and other team members. Summarize, with a sense of pedagogy, Operations and Supply Chain knowledge and bring others along in the transformation journey.
- Strong knowledge of S&OP methodologies, demand planning techniques, and inventory management principles, including in mapping processes, identifying gaps, and developing integration plans for S&OP implementation
- Accountability - Takes responsibility for consistent completion and follow-up, providing excellent service delivery.
- Flexibility - Responsive to change and demonstrates adaptability.
- Positive Approach & Can-do Attitude - Maintains a positive approach while completing daily tasks and when faced with adversity. Encourages and recognizes the contribution of others.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills - with the ability to effectively communicate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
- Languages - Fluent in English and German, both written and verbal. Knowledge of Spanish and French languages is a plus.
The role will be based in the Germany / Austria and will require frequent global travel.
BENEFITS
- Inexpensive lunch catering in our excellent company restaurant, run by our award-winning chef
- Attractive employee conditions for the purchase of spices, vinegars, oils etc. in our shop as well as local discounts at various companies
- Physiotherapy with low deductible, company doctor, company pension scheme, company bike
- KlimaTicket Salzburg
- Flexible working hours thanks to an attractive flexitime model and home office option
- Flat organisational structures and short decision-making processes
- Varied field of activity as well as a constructive, productive and very innovative working environment in a successful international company
As the position can also be located in Austria, we are obliged to state the minimum salary (3,526.23 gross/month) according to the valid collective agreement.
A significant overpayment in line with your qualifications and experience is a matter of course for us.