Stock Planning and Analytics Manager

Job Introduction We are looking to recruit a Stock Planning & Analytics Manager to be based in Exeter or Huthwaite. You will lead inventory planning, stock optimisation and advanced inventory analytics across NGED, ensuring the right materials are available at the right time to support operational reliability and network delivery, while balancing service performance and cost efficiency. As a key member of the Stores & Inventory Leadership Team, you'll drive stock availability, improve forecasting accuracy, reduce excess and obsolete inventory, and deliver data-driven insights that enhance supply chain performance, resilience and decision-making across the business. Main Responsibilities Lead the design, implementation and continuous improvement of inventory planning and stock optimisation strategies Accountable for the end-to-end stock planning processes including demand forecasting, replenishment planning, safety stock setting, reorder parameters and stock segmentation Analyse complex data sets covering demand, consumption, supplier performance and lead-time data to identify risks, trends and improvement opportunities Develop and maintain forecasting and inventory models to improve stock availability and service performance Define and govern inventory policies, planning parameters and performance measures across different material categories and operational contexts Monitor and manage stock health and reduce excess, obsolete and slow-moving inventory Deliver inventory performance reporting, dashboards and actionable management insights Provide clear actionable insight and recommendations to senior stakeholders to support strategic and operational decision making Partner with Procurement, Operations, Finance and suppliers to optimise supply chain performance. Identify and deliver process improvement, automation and enhanced use of data and analytics. Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives using structured problem solving and data led methodologies Ensure robust inventory governance, controls and data integrity Strengthen supply chain resilience through effective management of critical spares and supply risks. Lead, develop and motivate a high-performing inventory team Ideal Candidate We're looking for a strategic and analytical supply chain professional with strong inventory planning expertise and a passion for using data to drive performance, efficiency and operational resilience. You will be experienced in managing complex inventory environments, influencing stakeholders at all levels and leading teams to deliver measurable business outcomes. You Will Have Significant experience in inventory management, stock planning, demand planning or supply chain analytics within a complex organisation Understanding of inventory optimisation principles, including safety stock, reorder points and service levels principals. Knowledge of supply chain and materials management processes within a complex multi-site operational environment. Experience using data analysis, forecasting and performance reporting Understanding of critical spares management, material availability and operational resilience Stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills. Demonstrable continuous improvement mindset with a focus on driving operational efficiency Extensive operational management and leadership experience, able to drive positive performance of diverse and dispersed teams Desirable Experience in energy, utilities, infrastructure engineering sectors Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems Knowledge and experience using analytical tools such as PowerBI, AI and/or SQL Qualifications Degree qualification, or equivalent relevant experience, in Supply Chain, Logistics, Data Analytics or a related discipline Professional management or leadership qualification, or actively working towards one This role requires regular presence on site to support the team and operations, some hybrid working will be available once established in the role. About Us We’re National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED), the owner and operator behind the electricity distribution systems for the Midlands, the Southwest of England and South Wales. Serving communities of more than 8 million people, our expert teams deliver heat, light and power for homes and businesses. National Grid employs over 29,000 people worldwide. We are building an inclusive workplace, a place to actively celebrate the cultures, personalities and preferences of our colleagues – who in turn help to build the success of our business and reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. Our vision is to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable energy future and we are doing this in a fast-moving industry with an increasing focus on tackling climate change, exploring new energy sources that are renewable, low carbon, and improve efficiency to meet demand.