Head - Strategic Planning

Role Purpose

Lead Strategic Planning will be responsible for shaping, driving, and executing the long-term supply chain strategy for the organization. This role will ensure that the companys supply chain ecosystem is resilient, cost-efficient, digitally enabled, and capable of supporting future growth in the business. The position involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, Procurement, Logistics, Sales, Finance, Sustainability, and Commercial Strategy.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Supply Chain Planning

• Develop and execute the supply chain strategy aligned with organizational goals and market growth plans.
• Identify structural improvements and optimize the manufacturing footprints.
• Lead scenario planning, capacity modelling, and risk simulations to ensure supply continuity and optimal cost structures.

2. Network Optimization & Capex Strategy

• Evaluate and recommend changes to sourcing plan, plant locations, warehousing models, and logistics networks based on demand projections and category growth.
• Build long-term Capex requirements including automation, digital tools, warehouse expansion, and sustainability initiatives.

3. Demand, Inventory & Production Strategy

• Collaborate with the S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning) process to improve forecast accuracy and balance demand-supply risks.
• Set strategic inventory norms and define buffer strategies for high-risk SKUs and critical raw materials.
• Design multi-tier production and replenishment models to improve service levels and reduce total supply chain cost.

4. Digital Transformation & Analytics

• Lead digital roadmap for supply chain including advanced planning systems (APS), AI/ML forecasting tools, IoT-based visibility, and control tower designs.
• Create dashboards and decision-support tools for leadership using data-driven insights.

5. Cost Optimization & Productivity

• Drive large-scale productivity programs focused on logistics efficiency, manufacturing throughput, material yield improvement, and working capital management.
• Build and monitor KPIs and benchmarking models for continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience

• Masters degree in operations management, Supply chain management from
• 815 years of experience in supply chain roles, with at least 35 years in a strategic or transformation-focused capacity.
• Prior experience in the beverages, FMCG, or consumer goods industry strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of end-to-end supply chain, including manufacturing, procurement, logistics, and S&OP.
• Proven track record of leading cross-functional projects and strategic transformations.

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic thinking with ability to break down complex business challenges.
• Advanced analytical capabilities; proficiency with supply chain planning tools, optimization models, and data analytics.
• Strong business acumen and financial understanding (Capex/Opex, ROI analysis).
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and change management skills.
• Ability to lead through influence and work in a rapidly evolving business environment.