Demand Planner

About the Company

Hilton Foods is dedicated to its people who form the core of the company’s success. They specialize in multiple categories with an emphasis on quality and innovative solutions. Originating in the meat industry, Hilton Foods has developed global leadership in quality and continues investing in cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency and consumer-driven innovation.

Role Overview

The Demand Planner will be responsible for forecasting customer demand across all retail products at the Drogheda site. This role includes capacity modelling for both operations and logistics with close collaboration with the planning manager to maintain a rolling 52-week forecast of capacity needs. The planner will serve as the main liaison between internal commercial teams and customers' supply chain teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze historical sales data, seasonal trends, weather patterns, and upcoming promotions to accurately forecast consumer demand.
• Develop seasonal demand plans using company tools to ensure delivery meets planned cost targets.
• Manage updates and releases related to Quintiq planning software.
• Model demand and resource needs for on-site logistics, including automated and manual warehouses, and identify potential bottlenecks.
• Perform daily comparisons of customer forecasts against actual orders to identify discrepancies.
• Oversee new product setup within planning systems to facilitate smooth product launches.
• Participate in site New Product Development (NPD) meetings to stay informed about upcoming product changes.
• Attend daily Demand Review Meeting 2 (DRM2) and Planning meetings to keep communication aligned.
• Maintain frequent communication with the planning manager, other planners, and raw material schedulers to discuss forecast adjustments.
• Monitor service levels at the SKU level, ensuring comprehensive historical data is maintained.
• Identify and escalate underperforming or problematic products affecting site or customer performance.
• Support the accounts team with debit note inquiries related to demand planning.

Candidate Profile

• Demonstrated expertise and proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Office applications.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Solid experience in demand forecasting within retail environments.
• Proven track record of working collaboratively with retail customers.
• Excellent organizational skills with ability to prioritize effectively under pressure.

Additional Information

• Working hours are Monday to Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM and Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, totaling 39 hours per week.
• Location is on site in Drogheda, Ireland.
• Salary offered is competitive, details not disclosed.

Benefits & Perks

• Career development and opportunities for internal promotion.
• Holiday entitlement: 30 days including 20 annual leave days and 10 public holidays.
• Company pension plan with 5% matching contribution.
• Subsidised on-site canteen facilities.
• Electric vehicle charging stations available.
• Cycle to work scheme participation.
• Employee Share Save scheme.
• Complimentary on-site car parking.
• Discounted products available at staff shop.
• Employee assistance programs for wellbeing support.