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Head of Planning Excellence

  • United Kingdom
  • Chiswick
  • Hybrid
  • Permanent Full-Time
  • Posted: 14 Apr 2026
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Head of Planning Excellence

About the job

Danoners are steering us to a more sustainable future, helping to make the world healthier. As a certified B-Corp, we have our Danone Impact Journey to 2026. This will only be possible with each and every one of our leaders. Do you want to be one of them? For more information on our Danone Impact Journey click HERE.

Role Purpose:

Drive world-class planning capabilities to unlock optimisation and continuous improvement of the end-to-end planning process for Danone North Europe (NE) (UK, Ireland, Nordics and Baltics). Lead the cross functional introduction of a new IBP (Integrated Business Planning). Including project governance, improved integration of demand signals & in market performance to improve bottom up forecast generation. Lead the adoption of advanced analytics & tools to enhance forecast accuracy / forecast bias.

Key Activities:

Enhance Planning Capabilities:

Define the NE Planning Competency Model aligned with EU Center of Excellence (CoE) with external benchmarks. Deploy targeted training to create a culture of planning excellence & accountability, with ongoing follow up where bias or volatility persists. 

Unlock process optimisation & continuous improvement

Redefine and monitor planning KPIs providing reporting and insights to senior leadership on performance. Use data-driven analysis to identify risks and opportunities for improvement. Lead key user groups for Demand & Supply teams to unlock continuous improvement, tool optimisation & cross category best practice sharing.

Best in class IBP governance & adherence:

Lead the transformation to the IBP process & identify areas for optimisation. Monitor KPIs / inputs to flag performance concerns, bottlenecks or issues requiring escalation. Organise training sessions for stakeholders on IBP principles, tools & their roles within the cycle. Maintain the GPS calendar & playbook. Provide support to Planning community

Deliver a Digitally Enabled future

Lead the adoption and integration of advanced planning tools, analytics, and digital solutions. Partner with EU CoE / IT team to identify & accelerate tool innovation.

About you

We would like you to demonstrate your following key skills:

  • Technical expertise with a deep knowledge of planning principles, S&OP processes, and forecasting methodologies.
  • Proven experience leading an S&OP transformation within a multi category business
  •  Experience with advanced planning systems (e.g., SAP IBP, APO, or similar) and analytics tools.
  •  Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence senior stakeholders.
  •  Strong change management and communication skills.
  •  Ability to translate business objectives into planning strategies and actionable initiatives.
  •  Strong data analysis and interpretation skills to drive decision-making.
  • Advanced understanding of FMCG supply chain dynamics and market trends

 

Salary Bracket: £80,000 - £95,000

 
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About Danone

At Danone UK & Ireland, we are committed to delivering better health through better nutrition for millions of consumers and patients in our communities. 

We believe in the benefits of working both in the office hub and at home. Time in the hub enhances community, problem solving and innovation, while home working supports focus, learning and wellness.

Our hybrid working framework is designed to help you perform your role in the most efficient way. Your manager will guide how you split your time between home and your nearest hub, based on your role and business needs.

The aim is to support you in doing your best work, while creating connection moments that matter.

We have a range of flexible benefits and excellent rewards, click here to find out more.

Inclusion and Diversity (I&D) is deeply embedded in Danone's DNA, representing our core values and beliefs. We embrace diversity as a driving force for positive change, nurturing an inclusive workplace where every individual is valued. 

The closing date for applications is 21st April, you will therefore hear about your application after this date. 

 

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Job details

Dedicated to bringing health through food to as many people as possible, we are a leading global food & beverage company built on four businesses: Essential Dairy and Plant-Based Products, Waters, Early Life Nutrition and Medical Nutrition. 

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