Senior Manager - Planning & Procurement

We are seeking a dynamic and detail-driven Senior Manager - Planning & Procurement to lead the integrated business planning and sourcing function. This role will be responsible for driving demand-supply alignment, cost optimization, vendor performance, and inventory efficiency across raw materials, packaging materials, and finished goods. The position plays a critical role in ensuring high customer service levels (COF > 95%), optimal inventory (DOH targets), and consistent material availability to support production and growth plans.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Demand & Supply Planning:

• Lead the monthly S&OP cycle with Sales, Operations, and Finance to deliver accurate forecasts and executable supply plans.
• Review forecast accuracy and bias at channel, SKU, and category levels, driving continuous improvement.
• Translate demand into production and material replenishment requirements to prevent stockouts and maintain healthy inventory levels.
• Develop and monitor KPIs such as Forecast Accuracy, DOH, COF, and aging (>70% shelf life).

2. Procurement & Cost Optimization:

• Oversee procurement of raw materials and packaging materials across all categories and co-manufacturers.
• Develop category-wise sourcing strategies ensuring cost competitiveness, quality standards, and reliable supply.
• Drive annual cost-saving initiatives through negotiations, vendor development, and long-term contracts.
• Evaluate vendor performance on OTIF, quality rejections, and payment/credit adherence.
• Collaborate with Finance for timely GRNs, reconciliations, and working capital optimization.

3. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work with NPD and Quality teams for timely BOM finalization, SKU onboarding, and specification alignment.
• Coordinate with Operations and Warehousing on inbound logistics, safety stock norms, and supplier service levels.
• Liaise with co-manufacturers, 3PLs, and external partners to ensure timely dispatches and supply continuity.

4. Process Excellence & Governance:

• Build and institutionalize Planning & Procurement SOPs, governance structures, and review mechanisms.
• Implement tools for demand sensing, purchase automation, supplier dashboards, and system-driven planning.
• Lead RCA and CAPA for deviations such as OOS, MOQ challenges, or cost overruns.
• Ensure alignment with organizational cost governance and margin improvement objectives.

5. People Leadership:

• Manage and mentor the Demand Planner and Procurement Manager, fostering a culture of ownership, discipline, and collaboration.
• Build capability in planning, negotiation, and analytics through structured training and development.
• Lead cross-functional reviews with transparency and data-driven decision-making.

What You'll Bring:

• 09-12 years of experience in planning, procurement, or supply chain leadership roles (preferably FMCG, food manufacturing, or D2C).
• Strong understanding of S&OP, demand forecasting, and material planning across multi-category portfolios.
• Demonstrated success in strategic sourcing, vendor development, and procurement cost optimization.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel/Google Sheets and ERP systems (SAP/Zoho/Tally or equivalent).
• Strong stakeholder management and collaboration skills across Sales, Finance, NPD, Operations, and Manufacturing.
• High ownership mindset, ability to handle ambiguity, and strong execution capability in fast-paced environments.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills with a long-term value creation outlook.

Nice to Have:

• Experience implementing or optimizing ERP or planning systems (SAP, NetSuite, Dynamics).
• Exposure to co-manufacturing setups and multi-plant supply networks.
• Knowledge of CM1 drivers, BOM cost structures, and cost governance frameworks.
• Experience working closely with senior leadership (CXOs/founders).
• Understanding of export supply chains and packaging procurement.
• Certifications such as Lean Six Sigma, APICS, or Supply Chain Analytics.