Demand Planning Manager, Europe

Kō wai mātou? Who are we?

Zespri is more than simply the world's single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission and as rebels with a cause: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit, selling kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand's best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers.

He aha te mahi? What's the role?

Reporting to the IBP Lead, the Demand Planning Manager serves as the critical link between the business and supply chain through the management of an integrated demand planning process. Based in Antwerp, this position leads the development of demand plans for various fruit varieties across Europe, ensuring high-quality forecasting and continuous improvement in demand visibility.

Key responsibilities involve:

• Leading the monthly forecasting process, developing consensus forecasts for SKUs within the Integrated Business Planning (IBP) framework. Ensure forecasts are aligned with business objectives and reflect the latest market dynamics.
• Collecting and synthesizing insights from Sales, Marketing, Finance, and other stakeholders—including customer events, pricing strategies, and competitive activity—to enhance forecast accuracy and responsiveness.
• Monitoring key forecasting metrics such as accuracy and bias. Continuously refine statistical models and planning assumptions to improve forecast reliability and support business agility.
• Acting as a central point of contact between commercial and supply chain teams to resolve demand-supply discrepancies. Facilitate effective communication, document lessons learned, and ensure timely resolution of exceptions.
• Partnering with the Global Demand Optimization Team to identify and implement improvements in forecasting tools, methodologies, and documentation. Drive standardization and best practices across the planning function.
• Leading or contributing to high-impact projects and initiatives that enhance planning capabilities, support business growth, or improve operational efficiency.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop demand forecasts for new product launches, transitions, and discontinuations. Ensure seamless integration into the planning process and supply chain.
• Extracting and analysing data from multiple systems, including Sales, IT, and Finance, to support forecasting activities and the monthly IBP cycle. Translate complex data into actionable insights for stakeholders.
• Ensuring high data quality by maintaining planning software interfaces, system parameters, and master data hierarchies (product, customer, location). Support continuous improvement of data processes and tools.

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

We are looking for an analytical and process-oriented professional with 5 - 7 years of demand planning experience. You will also bring:

• Expertise in demand planning, preferably in FMCG, retail or fresh produce sectors.
• Familiarity with statistical forecasting tools.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities across functions and regions.
• A proactive mindset with a passion for continuous improvement.
• Expertise in forecasting methods and large data sets.
• Proficient in SAP; experience with IBP/APO or similar planning tools is preferred.
• Skilled in project management, planning, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or equivalent experience.

He aha e tika ai a Zespri? Why Zespri?

Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of being personally connected, results-driven, and committed to guardianship. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.

• Competitive overall remuneration package.
• FlexWELL flexible work; WFH & the office.
• Additional paid annual leave day per year (Zespri Day).
• Additional paid volunteer day to volunteer within your community (Volunteer Time).
• Global Life and Permanent Disability Insurance.
• Group Medical Insurance benefits.

Apply Now! Applications close 6 June 2025.

At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@zespri.com.