Demand Planning Specialist

Overview

The Demand Planning Specialist will support procurement operations by identifying, evaluating, and managing suppliers for food ingredients, raw materials, and packaging. This role plays a key part in ensuring quality, cost-efficiency, and timely delivery of materials essential for food production. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of sourcing processes, supplier negotiations, and industry regulations specific to the food sector.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and execution of sourcing strategies for assigned categories (e.g., ingredients, raw materials, packaging).
• Conduct supplier research, benchmarking, and qualifications to support sourcing initiatives.
• Request, evaluate, and compare quotes, proposals, and samples from vendors.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance & Control teams, Operations, Chefs, and Regulatory teams to align sourcing strategies with product specifications, compliance requirements and market constraints.
• Maintain and update supplier databases and procurement records in ERP systems.
• Support contract negotiations and help ensure that contracts meet regulatory and business requirements.
• Monitor supplier performance and service levels, escalating issues as needed.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards, ethical sourcing policies, and sustainability initiatives.
• Monitor supplier performance & relationship using KPIs and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and value engineering projects without compromising quality and safety standards.
• Prepare and present regular reports on sourcing activities, savings, and market trends to higher management.
• Other duties: Regular attendance in conformance with the standards which may be established by the company from time to time is essential to the successful performance of this position.
• Due to the cyclical nature of the hospitality industry, employees may be required to work varying schedules to reflect the business needs of the organization.

Qualifications TECHNICAL SKILLS:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Food Science, or related field.
• Minimum 2-4 years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement within the food industry and / or more generally within the FMCG sector.
• Familiarity with food safety regulations and standards (e.g., HACCP, FSMA, BRC).
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with ERP/procurement software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and e-procurement tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Language: Perfect English, additional language is a plus

SOFT SKILLS:

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Drive For Results
• Action oriented
• Motivating others