VIP is working with a manufacturing client in Providence, RI, looking for a Sales & Operations Planning Manager. This is a full-time role that could be worked remotely.

The S&OP Manager is the subject matter expert for demand planning, network optimization, and capacity planning while supporting various projects, including monthly demand plans, consumption models, network and production strategy optimization, integration of new businesses, and new product launches. This leader also facilitates each S&OP meeting to ensure the team is focused on the plan. The S&OP Manager may also need to lead technical initiatives to improve data analysis, such as implementing planning software.

This successful candidate will play a critical role enabling gross margin optimization and improved working capital.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

Participate in the development of statistical models to optimize safety stocks without negatively affecting customer service levels
Review and analyze the forecast demand versus actual demand, understanding changes and trends
Collaborate with Sales and Marketing to ensure that the promotions, visible impact orders, and new product forecasts are included in the aggregate demand
Lead cross-functional teams to develop and maintain integrated business plans
Monitor and analyze current and historical market trends and customer demand patterns
Analyze and provide insights on supply and demand constraints, potential risks and opportunities, and inventory optimization
Collaborate with sales, marketing, and finance teams to ensure that financial goals are met
Prepare and present reports, forecasts, and recommendations to management
Identify areas for process improvement and develop solutions to strengthen S&OP processes
Establish and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Monitor and report on performance metrics and KPIs
Develop and maintain S&OP best practices and policies.
Communicate with Manufacturing about promotions, new products forecasts, and launch timing updates
Assist in the resolution of key supply-demand/service-cost issues
Document assumptions, promotions, and adjustments to forecasts using Sales and Marketing teams’ input
Analyze and upload timely and accurate periods of 18 months’ forecasts on a monthly basis
Facilitate monthly demand forecast aggregation, including consensus between functions and stakeholders
Assist with the coordination, facilitation, and documentation of regularly scheduled planning meetings
Review, store, and backup final adjusted and unadjusted statistical forecasts
Create and drive continuous improvement of world-class demand planning and S&OP processes
Measure, control, and improve S&OP plan accuracy through clearly defined metrics
Lead network optimization process to mitigate costs and maximize service
Develop capacity simulation processes to run sensitivity analysis for growth
Utilize a pragmatic and data driven approach towards problem solving and foster a solution and success-oriented environment characterized by ownership and accountability

REQUIRED 6 MONTHS ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

There are several priorities that the S&OP Manager will need to accomplish during his/her initial 6 months in the role:

Gain a detailed knowledge of all aspects of the business. Understand the key issues, challenges and business opportunities by product line and global geographies;
Build strong partnerships and establish credibility internal across all functional areas
Bring an immediate focus to the company’s operational flow from forecasting & planning to sourcing, production, and logistics;
Implement specific initiatives to drive forecast accuracy and drive inventory optimization
Develop a collaborative working relationship with all members of the CMs and China based team members
Be the consummate team player, who can operate in a complex, fast paced, multi-faceted business environment which is undergoing significant transformation
Bring transparent and diligent (financial) analysis & modeling, and act as conduit across the business

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

CANDIDATES WILL NEED TO HAVE A COMBINATION OF THE FOLLOWING EXPERIENCE:

Proven experience in key leadership roles operating in the intersection between US-based (or Europe-based) HQ and inhouse/outsourced operations in China; A 15-20 year proven track record of successfully managing operations (inhouse or via CM) that deliver consumer-oriented products across global markets with multiple distribution channels;
Strong data & analytics skills, including Excel proficiency and other programs such as Access and Tableau
Proven ability to dynamically employ strategic and tactical analysis as required
Exceptional communication skills (both oral and written) supplemented with a collegial approach resulting in open sharing and collaboration
Strong organizational skills in strategy, communication at all levels across the business and passion for flawless execution
Demonstrated ability to lead, contribute, and influence others in a team-based organization
Excellent interpersonal skills, project management skills, with an ability to openly convey information to team members in a timely, concise manner
Ability to build relationships up, across and down the organization;
Pragmatic, enterprising, motivated and resilient with the drive, enthusiasm, personal urgency and commitment necessary to inspire the company to “get things done,” both effectively and efficiently;
Brings high character; acting in line with a clear and visible set of values and beliefs; dealing and talking straight
Demonstrated understanding of financial systems and the key drivers within the manufacturing environment
Proficiency with NetSuite software highly preferred

EDUCATION:

A four-year undergraduate degree – Business, Supply Chain Management, or Logistics
MBA or Master’s degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Finance or equivalent
Six Sigma – Black Belt certification desired

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Sales Operations Planning Manager