Planning & Logistics Manager

Job description

The Planning & Logistics Manager will oversee the Order Fulfillment and Supply Chain Systems functions, ensuring efficient and reliable product flows from order entry through customer delivery. This role is responsible for leading the optimization and automation of Order desk processes, managing 3PL warehouse operations, reducing retailer penalties, and driving large-scale supply chain projects. By aligning processes, systems, and teams, the Planning & Logistics Manager ensures operational excellence, cost efficiency, and superior service to customers. Team Leadership & Oversight Lead the Order Fulfillment Specialists and the Supply Chain Systems Lead, fostering accountability and continuous improvement. Provide direction, support, and coaching to ensure alignment with company objectives. Order Desk Optimization & Automation Streamline exception handling, automate allocation logic, and reduce manual touches in order entry and invoicing. Improve overall efficiency while enhancing customer service (proactive vs. reactive). 3PL Warehouse Management Act as primary contact for all U.S. warehouses, ensuring accountability for stock accuracy and service performance. Oversee stock corrections, monthly inventory counts, and reconciliations. Manage stock transfers, consolidation programs, and inventory optimization. Conduct warehouse audits focusing on safety, quality, and service; identify improvement projects to enhance accuracy, picking quality, and reporting standards. Performance Management (KPIs) Monitor and analyze KPIs such as MOQ, OTIF, stock evolution, pallet utilization, FIFO picking, costs, and service levels. Develop action plans to address variances and drive continuous improvement. Penalties & Deductions Management Investigate, challenge, and dispute penalties and non-trade deductions. Identify root causes and implement corrective measures to minimize future deductions. Report findings and results to leadership on an ongoing basis. Strategic Projects & Systems Lead large-scale supply chain initiatives including EDI/ICT integration with carriers, suppliers (CHEP), ERP upgrades, and new warehouse launches. Oversee the idoc error management process (with support from the Supply Chain Systems Lead). Quality & Compliance Manage quality and food safety documentation and standardization for SOF US in alignment with Corporate FSQA. Coordinate responses to customer requests and audits related to food safety and compliance. Supplier Engagement Serve as the main contact with inbound carriers regarding pricing, tenders, and contract issues. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, Operations Management, or related field preferred. 5+ years of experience in supply chain, customer service, logistics, warehouse operations, or order management. Experience working with 3PL warehouse providers and managing external logistics partners. Strong understanding of inventory management, stock reconciliation, and warehouse operations. Proven experience optimizing order management processes and driving automation initiatives. Knowledge of ERP systems, EDI integrations, and supply chain systems management. Experience managing large-scale supply chain or systems implementation projects preferred. Strong analytical skills with experience monitoring and interpreting KPIs, metrics, and operational performance data. Ability to identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Experience managing deductions, penalties, chargebacks, or customer compliance issues preferred. Familiarity with food safety, quality, and compliance documentation within a food or consumer goods environment preferred. Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Excellent communication and relationship management skills with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally and manage external partners. Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools. Ability to work independently while maintaining a high level of accountability and attention to detail. Experience in a fast-paced CPG, food manufacturing, or distribution environment preferred. Competencies Ownership & Accountability – Takes full responsibility for processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance. Analytical Thinking – Translates data into insights that drive business and workforce decisions. Continuous Improvement – Identifies opportunities to enhance processes and implement best practices. Collaboration – Partners with HR, Finance, and Operations to deliver results and align initiatives. Communication – Clearly explains policies, processes, and data to employees and leadership. Passion & Drive – Brings energy and commitment to building a strong, compliant, and employee-focused workplace.