About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Planning & S&OP Manager to lead the Sales & Operations Planning process and drive supply chain excellence for a dynamic organization in Kuwait. This pivotal role sits at the intersection of demand planning, supply planning, and commercial strategy, ensuring optimal inventory levels, service levels, and operational efficiency across the end-to-end supply chain. Reporting directly to the Supply Chain Director or Operations Director, you will own the S&OP cycle, facilitate cross-functional collaboration, and translate business objectives into actionable supply chain plans.
Core Responsibilities
- Lead the monthly S&OP process: Orchestrate demand review, supply review, pre-S&OP, and executive S&OP meetings; align sales, marketing, finance, procurement, manufacturing, and logistics on a single consensus plan.
- Demand Planning & Forecasting: Develop and maintain statistical forecasts using advanced forecasting tools; incorporate market intelligence, promotional plans, and new product introductions; measure forecast accuracy (MAPE, bias) and drive continuous improvement.
- Supply Planning & Inventory Optimization: Translate demand plans into feasible supply plans; manage capacity constraints, supplier lead times, and production schedules; optimize safety stock levels and inventory turns while meeting target service levels (OTIF, fill rate).
- Scenario Planning & Risk Management: Build what-if scenarios for demand volatility, supply disruptions, and capacity changes; quantify financial impact and recommend mitigation strategies.
- KPIs & Performance Reporting: Define, track, and report on key S&OP metrics (forecast accuracy, plan adherence, inventory days, service level, obsolescence); present insights to leadership with data-driven recommendations.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as the primary bridge between commercial and operational teams; resolve conflicts between demand and supply; drive alignment on new product launches, phase-outs, and promotional activities.
- Process & Systems Enhancement: Lead S&OP process maturation (people, process, technology); evaluate and implement planning tools (e.g., SAP IBP, Kinaxis, o9, Anaplan); standardize templates, workflows, and governance cadence.
- Team Leadership & Development: Mentor and develop a team of demand planners, supply planners, and S&OP analysts; set clear objectives, conduct performance reviews, and foster a culture of analytical rigor and accountability.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or related field; Master's degree or APICS/ASCM certifications (CPIM, CSCP, CLTD) strongly preferred.
- Minimum 8-10 years of progressive experience in supply chain planning, with at least 4-5 years in a dedicated S&OP or demand/supply planning leadership role.
- Proven track record of designing and running a formal S&OP/IBP process in a complex, multi-SKU, multi-site environment (FMCG, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or similar).
- Deep expertise in statistical forecasting, demand sensing, inventory optimization models, and capacity planning.
- Advanced proficiency in ERP systems (SAP APO/IBP, Oracle Demantra, JDE) and planning platforms; strong Excel/Power BI/Tableau skills for data visualization.
- Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders, facilitate executive-level meetings, and drive consensus across competing priorities.
- Fluent in English (written and spoken); Arabic language proficiency is a significant advantage for the Kuwait market.
Preferred Skills
- Experience with integrated business planning (IBP) linking financial planning to S&OP.
- Knowledge of machine learning / AI-driven forecasting techniques.
- Background in the GCC region with understanding of local market dynamics, customs, and regulatory environment.
- Change management experience leading planning transformation projects.
- Six Sigma / Lean certification (Green Belt or Black Belt).
What Makes This Opportunity Stand Out
- Strategic Impact: Direct ownership of the S&OP engine that drives revenue realization, margin protection, and customer satisfaction for a market-leading organization.
- Leadership Visibility: Regular interaction with C-suite and director-level stakeholders; your insights shape business strategy.
- Transformation Mandate: Opportunity to modernize planning capabilities, introduce best-in-class tools, and build a high-performance planning center of excellence.
- Competitive Package: Attractive tax-free compensation, housing/transport allowances, medical insurance, annual leave, and relocation support aligned with Kuwait market standards.
- Professional Growth: Clear pathway to Director/VP Supply Chain roles; access to global training programs and industry conferences.