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.

S&OP Manager (f/m/d)