UI South Asia Supply Planning Assistant Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI South Asia Supply Planning Assistant Manager

Company: Unilever

Location: Mumbai HO, India

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Supply Chain Operations / Planning

Date Posted: May 27, 2026

Experience Level: 8-10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive optimization of inventory, service levels, and costs within the South Asia supply chain, specifically for Unilever International (UI).

• Lead and manage a team of central supply planners, network planners, and branch customer service representatives to improve operational efficiencies and navigate supply chain disruptions.

• Act as the primary supply chain liaison for the relevant category, fostering continuous collaboration with customer marketing, planning, and sales teams.

• Implement new technologies and methodologies in planning and customer service, working closely with Planning Excellence, Demand Planning, and Distribution Planning teams.

• Develop and execute supply chain strategies to build an agile, efficient, collaborative, and aligned end-to-end network.

• Drive cost-saving projects and initiatives through leadership and inspiration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within Unilever International (UI), described as Unilever's "White Space Arm" and a rapidly growing, profitable business unit focusing on underserved markets and channels. The Assistant Manager will be instrumental in building and optimizing supply chain operations for this agile, intrapreneurial division, requiring a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution. The emphasis on "agile innovation" and "intrapreneurship" suggests a dynamic environment where adaptability and proactive problem-solving are key.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the end-to-end supply planning processes, with a strong focus on short-to-medium term planning horizons and finished goods inventory management.

• Review and validate short-term and medium-term master production schedules (MPS) and material requirement planning (MRP) to ensure alignment with demand and capacity.

• Analyze medium-term demand forecasts and production capacity to proactively identify and resolve potential bottlenecks or constraints.

• Collaborate closely with Supply Units (SUs), procurement teams, and factories to achieve high service levels at optimal costs, identifying and implementing capacity unlock and cost-saving projects.

• Partner with the logistics team to identify opportunities for service level improvements, support digitization efforts, and drive overall logistical efficiencies.

• Lead and champion various supply planning projects, including process simplification, strategic network optimization, and cost-saving initiatives.

• Work cross-functionally with Supply Chain Finance, procurement, and SUs to identify and execute opportunities for optimizing transfer prices and overall cost structures.

• Minimize business waste by strengthening the MRP process, conducting regular inventory reviews, managing product transitions effectively, and ensuring robust Supply and Demand Review meetings.

• Collaborate with the broader HUL (Hindustan Unilever Limited) planning team to enhance processes, foster seamless communication, and improve overall collaboration between teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on operational execution (MPS, MRP, inventory reviews) and strategic project leadership (simplification, cost savings, digitization). The emphasis on cross-functional collaboration with stakeholders like SUs, procurement, logistics, finance, and HUL planning teams underscores the importance of strong relationship management and communication skills for success in this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Graduate degree in Engineering, Finance, or an MBA with a specialization in Supply Chain Management. Experience:

• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in Supply Planning, Demand Planning, Customer Service, or other relevant supply chain verticals. Required Skills:

• Supply Planning Expertise: Proficient in managing short-to-medium term supply plans, including MPS and MRP review, finished goods inventory optimization, and capacity analysis.

• Inventory Management: Strong understanding of inventory control principles, safety stock calculations, and strategies to reduce business waste and optimize stock levels.

• Demand & Capacity Planning: Ability to analyze demand forecasts and production capacity to identify and mitigate potential issues and unlock constraints.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Proven ability to partner effectively with internal teams (Marketing, Sales, Planning, Finance, Procurement, Logistics) and external stakeholders (SUs, Factories).

• Cost Optimization: Experience in identifying and implementing cost-saving initiatives within the supply chain, including transfer price optimization and logistics cost reduction.

• Process Improvement: Demonstrated ability to drive process simplification, enhance efficiency, and implement best practices in supply chain planning.

• Team Leadership & Management: Experience in leading and inspiring a team to achieve operational goals and manage disruptions.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Strong analytical skills to review data, identify trends, and support decision-making for KPIs such as Service-DR, Order to Invoice LT, Inventory Value/MAT, and Cost metrics.

Preferred Skills:

• Digitization & Technology Adoption: Experience or strong interest in implementing new technologies and digitization within planning and customer service functions.

• Project Management: Proven ability to lead and execute supply chain projects, including simplification and strategic initiatives.

• Logistics & Distribution: Familiarity with logistics operations and strategies to support high service levels and drive efficiencies.

• Understanding of FMCG/Consumer Goods Supply Chains: Knowledge of the unique challenges and dynamics within the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 8-10+ years of experience, coupled with an MBA in Supply Chain Management or an Engineering/Finance degree, positions this role for a mid-to-senior level professional. The emphasis on both tactical execution (MPS/MRP review) and strategic leadership (cost savings, digitization, network strategy) suggests a need for a well-rounded operations professional. The "UI South Asia" context implies a need for understanding regional market dynamics and supply chain complexities specific to India and surrounding areas.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Supply Planning Process Documentation: Showcase examples of documented supply planning processes, including workflow diagrams, decision trees, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for MPS, MRP, and inventory management.

• Inventory Optimization Case Studies: Present case studies demonstrating successful inventory reduction initiatives, improved inventory turnover rates (MAT), and strategies implemented to minimize stock obsolescence or waste.

• Service Level Improvement Projects: Provide evidence of projects or initiatives led to enhance service levels (e.g., Service-DR, Order to Invoice Lead Time), detailing the problem, solution, and quantifiable results.

• Cost Reduction Initiatives: Include examples of cost optimization projects, such as transfer price analysis, logistics cost reduction strategies, or waste elimination efforts, with clear ROI documentation.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration Examples: Demonstrate instances where you successfully collaborated with diverse teams (e.g., Sales, Marketing, Procurement, Finance, Logistics) to achieve shared supply chain objectives.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase your ability to map existing supply chain workflows, identify inefficiencies, and design optimized processes that improve speed, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness.

• Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of how you have implemented new processes or leveraged technology to automate planning tasks, improve data accuracy, and enhance overall operational efficiency.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Detail your approach to establishing key performance indicators (KPIs), tracking performance against targets (e.g., Service-DR, Inventory, Cost), and conducting root-cause analysis for deviations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an Assistant Manager role in supply planning, a portfolio should ideally showcase a progression from tactical execution to strategic leadership. Candidates should be prepared to present specific examples of how they have analyzed data, identified opportunities, designed solutions, implemented changes, and measured the impact on key supply chain metrics like service, inventory, and cost. Experience with process mapping tools and Lean/Six Sigma methodologies would be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: ₹ 15,00,000 - ₹ 25,00,000 per annum.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on research for Assistant Manager roles in Supply Chain Planning within the FMCG sector in Mumbai, India, considering the stated experience level (8-10+ years) and the reputation of a large multinational corporation like Unilever. Salary benchmarks from industry reports, salary aggregators, and compensation surveys for similar roles in major Indian metropolitan areas were consulted. This range accounts for base salary, potential bonuses, and typical benefits packages.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employees and dependents.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., Provident Fund).

• Paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and incentives.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.

• Access to Unilever's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for well-being support.

• Employee discounts on Unilever products.

• Opportunities for international exposure within Unilever International's global network. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, typically around 40 hours.

• Expected to be on-site in Mumbai, with potential for occasional travel for stakeholder meetings or factory visits.

• Flexibility may be required during peak periods or to manage urgent supply chain disruptions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate and may vary based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. Unilever is known for offering competitive compensation and benefits packages, especially for roles within its high-growth divisions like Unilever International. The emphasis on "digitization" and "agile innovation" suggests potential for performance-based incentives tied to efficiency gains and project success.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) / Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)

Company Size: Large multinational corporation (20,000+ employees globally). Unilever is a global leader with a vast operational footprint.

Founded: 1929 (Merger of Lever Brothers and Margarine Unie). Unilever has a long-standing history and a well-established reputation in the consumer goods market.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within Unilever International (UI), a distinct and rapidly growing arm of Unilever, emphasizing an intrapreneurial and agile approach.

• The UI South Asia Supply Planning Assistant Manager will lead a team comprising central supply planners, network planners, and branch customer service representatives.

• This role requires close collaboration with various internal departments, including Category Teams (Marketing, Customer Marketing), Customer Development teams, broader Planning teams (Demand, Distribution, Planning Excellence), Delivery teams (Branch Fulfillment, Central Logistics), Supply Chain Finance, Procurement, and R&D.

• Reporting structure likely involves a direct report to a Supply Chain Manager or Head of Planning within UI South Asia. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on leveraging data and analytics to optimize planning processes, manage inventory, and improve service levels.

• Agile & Lean Principles: UI operates with an "agile innovation model," suggesting a culture that embraces speed, adaptability, and continuous improvement. This likely translates to supply chain operations that are responsive to market changes.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Strong focus on breaking down silos and fostering collaboration between different functions to achieve end-to-end supply chain efficiency and alignment.

• Continuous Improvement: A drive towards implementing new technologies (digitization) and optimizing existing processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service.

Company Website: https://www.unilever.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Unilever International's description as a "decacorn in-making" and its focus on "white space" markets implies a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. The Assistant Manager will need to be comfortable with ambiguity, rapid change, and driving initiatives within a less traditional corporate structure compared to core Unilever operations, while still adhering to global standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-to-Senior Level Management. This Assistant Manager position signifies a step towards greater leadership responsibility within supply chain operations, managing both processes and people.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into a senior supply chain leader within Unilever International South Asia. The Assistant Manager directly manages a team of planners and customer service professionals, indicating a significant people management component.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on Unilever International's ability to serve its target markets effectively and profitably. By optimizing inventory, service, and cost, the Assistant Manager contributes to:

• Revenue Growth: Ensuring product availability to meet demand in underserved markets.

• Profitability: Minimizing supply chain costs, reducing waste, and optimizing resource utilization.

• Customer Satisfaction: Delivering high service levels and reliable order fulfillment, crucial for building brand loyalty in new or niche markets.

• Operational Efficiency: Driving process improvements and digitization to scale operations effectively.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance to a full Manager or Head of Supply Chain roles within Unilever International, overseeing larger teams and broader geographical regions.

• Strategic Planning: Opportunity to contribute to the development of long-term supply chain strategies for UI South Asia and potentially other regions.

• Cross-Functional Experience: Exposure to various facets of the business, including marketing, sales, finance, and procurement, fostering a holistic understanding of the FMCG value chain.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in supply chain planning, demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and logistics management within a dynamic, growth-focused environment.

• Global Mobility: Potential for international assignments or broader roles within Unilever's global network, leveraging experience gained at UI.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "intrapreneurial" nature of Unilever International suggests that high performers who can demonstrate initiative, drive results, and adapt to change may find accelerated career progression opportunities compared to more traditional corporate roles. Success in this role could fast-track candidates into senior operational leadership positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role, located at Unilever's Mumbai headquarters (Mumbai HO). This suggests a professional corporate environment.

Office Location(s): Mumbai HO, India. This location offers access to a major business hub with significant talent and infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires extensive collaboration with various internal departments and teams. The office setup likely facilitates this with meeting rooms, shared workspaces, and open communication channels.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to Unilever's standard supply chain planning software, ERP systems, and analytical tools will be essential. The role also emphasizes digitization, suggesting an environment receptive to adopting new technologies.

• Team Interaction: Daily interaction with direct reports, peers, and senior management will be a core part of the work, fostering a dynamic and communicative atmosphere.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is likely Monday to Friday, aligning with typical business hours in India (Asia/Kolkata timezone).

• While a 40-hour workweek is standard, the nature of supply chain management, especially within a dynamic division like UI, may require flexibility to address urgent issues, manage disruptions, or meet critical deadlines. This could involve occasional extended hours or weekend work during peak periods or crises.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" nature of the role in Mumbai implies a need for candidates who are either based in the region or willing to relocate. The collaborative workspace context is critical for a role that bridges multiple functions and requires constant communication to manage the complexities of supply chain planning.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on experience in supply planning, demand planning, and relevant qualifications.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion on operational experience, team leadership capabilities, and understanding of supply chain dynamics in FMCG/UI context.

• Technical/Case Study Interview: May involve a practical exercise or case study focused on solving a supply chain problem, analyzing data, or presenting a strategic approach to a common planning challenge (e.g., inventory optimization, capacity crunch).

• Panel Interview: Interaction with key stakeholders from cross-functional teams (e.g., Marketing, Sales, Finance, Logistics) to assess collaboration skills and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to confirm alignment with UI's strategic objectives and leadership expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For every project or responsibility mentioned, provide specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) results. Use numbers and percentages to demonstrate impact (e.g., "Reduced inventory holding costs by 15%," "Improved on-time delivery rate by 8%").

• Showcase Process Thinking: Clearly articulate the steps taken in problem-solving, solution design, implementation, and monitoring. Use process maps or flowcharts if applicable.

• Highlight Collaboration: Provide examples of how you worked with different teams to achieve supply chain goals. Emphasize communication strategies and conflict resolution.

• Demonstrate Leadership: If managing a team, showcase instances of team motivation, development, and successful project execution under your leadership.

• Tailor to UI: Research Unilever International's mission, values, and focus areas (e.g., underserved markets, agile innovation). Frame your experience and portfolio items in a way that aligns with these objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Supply Chain Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle common supply chain challenges like demand volatility, supply disruptions, capacity constraints, and new product introductions.

• Data Analysis: Practice analyzing sample supply chain data (e.g., sales forecasts, inventory levels, lead times) to identify root causes and propose solutions.

• KPI Understanding: Be ready to discuss key supply chain KPIs (Service-DR, Inventory Turns, Order to Invoice LT, CU%, Spot %) and how you would track, manage, and improve them.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have managed expectations and communicated effectively with diverse stakeholders, especially those with differing priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on "agile innovation" and "intrapreneurship" within Unilever International, interviewers will likely look for candidates who are proactive, adaptable, and can demonstrate a results-oriented mindset. The portfolio review and case study are critical for assessing practical skills and strategic thinking relevant to UI's unique operational model.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• ERP Systems: Proficiency with enterprise resource planning systems like SAP (likely SAP APO for planning, SAP ECC/S4HANA for core data) or similar large-scale ERPs is essential for managing master data, production planning, and inventory.

• Supply Chain Planning (SCP) Software: Experience with dedicated SCP modules or standalone tools for advanced planning and scheduling (APS), such as Oracle SCM Cloud, Kinaxis, Blue Yonder (JDA), or similar platforms used for MPS and MRP.

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency is a must for data analysis, modeling, scenario planning, and reporting. This includes complex formulas, pivot tables, and potentially VBA for automation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Experience with tools like Tableau, Power BI, or QlikView for creating dashboards and visualizing key performance indicators (KPIs) related to service, inventory, and cost.

• Data Warehousing & Databases: Familiarity with querying databases (e.g., SQL) or working with data warehouses for extracting and analyzing supply chain data.

• Statistical Analysis Tools: Potential use of tools for statistical forecasting or data analysis, though often integrated within SCP or BI platforms.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (Indirect): While not directly managing customer relationships, understanding how CRM data (e.g., sales forecasts, order pipelines) integrates with supply planning is beneficial. Familiarity with Salesforce or similar CRM platforms is a plus.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Experience with or openness to using tools that automate repetitive tasks within planning or customer service processes.

• Integration Platforms: Understanding how different systems (ERP, SCP, Logistics) connect and share data, potentially involving middleware or integration platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description mentions "digitization" and working with "Planning Excellence," suggesting that candidates with experience in implementing or leveraging modern supply chain technologies will be highly valued. Proficiency in advanced Excel and BI tools is critical for data analysis and reporting, while experience with specific SCP software used by Unilever (likely SAP APO or similar) would be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A commitment to delivering high service levels and meeting the needs of customers in underserved markets, aligned with UI's mission.

• Agility & Adaptability: Embracing change, responding quickly to market dynamics, and operating effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

• Efficiency & Cost Consciousness: Driving operational excellence to minimize waste, optimize resource utilization, and achieve cost savings.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering strong relationships and working effectively across diverse functions and teams to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Actively seeking new ways to improve processes, leverage technology, and drive better outcomes.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Relying on data and analytics to inform strategies, monitor performance, and make informed operational decisions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A proactive approach to working with Marketing, Sales, Finance, Procurement, and Logistics to ensure alignment and smooth end-to-end supply chain execution.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and frequent communication, especially during critical planning reviews and when managing disruptions.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: Working collaboratively to identify root causes of issues and develop practical, effective solutions.

• Feedback Culture: Willingness to both provide and receive constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement within the team and across functions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices and lessons learned across the planning team and with other supply chain stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Unilever International is described as "intrapreneurial" and "agile." This suggests a dynamic, results-oriented environment that encourages initiative and rewards proactive problem-solving. The Assistant Manager should be comfortable with a degree of autonomy and expected to drive change, rather than just manage existing processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Volatility: Dealing with fluctuating demand, supply disruptions, and dynamic market conditions inherent in serving underserved or emerging markets.

• Balancing Conflicting Objectives: Optimizing inventory, service levels, and costs simultaneously, which often requires trade-offs and strategic prioritization.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring buy-in and seamless collaboration from diverse stakeholders with potentially competing priorities.

• Driving Digitization: Implementing new technologies and processes in a potentially complex organizational structure, requiring change management and adoption strategies.

• Team Development: Leading and motivating a team to achieve high performance while navigating the unique demands of the UI business model.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Supply Chain Strategy: Deepen understanding and application of strategic supply chain planning, network optimization, and S&OP principles within a global context.

• Digital Transformation in Supply Chain: Gain hands-on experience with implementing and leveraging digital tools and technologies for enhanced planning and operational efficiency.

• Leadership and People Management: Develop strong leadership skills through direct team management, mentoring, and exposure to Unilever's leadership development programs.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Broaden knowledge across marketing, sales, finance, and procurement, fostering a holistic business perspective.

• Exposure to Emerging Markets: Gain invaluable experience in navigating the complexities and opportunities of supply chains in diverse and developing markets through Unilever International.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth of a high-potential business unit (Unilever International) while developing critical skills in supply chain strategy, digital transformation, and leadership. The challenges presented are significant but provide fertile ground for professional growth and impact.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting supply chain objectives (e.g., inventory reduction vs. service level increase). How did you prioritize and what was the outcome?"

• "How would you approach developing a supply chain strategy for a new product launch in a challenging market like South Asia, considering UI's agile innovation model?"

• "Walk me through your process for identifying and mitigating supply chain risks or disruptions. Provide a specific example."

• "How do you foster collaboration between supply chain teams and commercial functions (e.g., Marketing, Sales) to ensure alignment on forecasts and inventory?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Unilever International and its mission? How does your experience align with its focus on 'white space' markets and agile innovation?"

• "How would you describe your leadership style, especially when managing a team through periods of change or high pressure?"

• "What are your thoughts on digitization in supply chain planning, and how have you contributed to or led such initiatives?"

• "How do you ensure that supply chain operations align with broader business goals and financial targets?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio around key themes such as Inventory Optimization, Service Level Improvement, Cost Reduction, Process Improvement/Digitization, and Team Leadership.

• Storytelling: For each case study, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate the challenge, your role, the actions taken, and the quantifiable impact.

• Visuals: Use charts, graphs, and diagrams to illustrate process flows, data trends, and performance improvements. This is especially important for showcasing data analysis and process optimization.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize the business outcomes of your work – how did you save money, improve efficiency, increase sales, or enhance customer satisfaction? Use specific metrics.

• UI Relevance: Tailor your examples to highlight experiences that resonate with UI's context – managing complexity, driving growth, working in dynamic environments, and collaborating across functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead a team, drive process improvements, manage complexity, and achieve measurable results in a supply chain planning context. The interview will likely assess both your technical competence and your fit with Unilever's culture, particularly the agile and intrapreneurial spirit of Unilever International.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Unilever's career portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience and achievements directly relevant to supply planning, demand planning, inventory management, and team leadership. Use keywords from the job description such as "Supply Planning," "Inventory Management," "Cost Optimization," and "Digitization." Quantify achievements with specific metrics.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most impactful projects that demonstrate your problem-solving skills, process improvement capabilities, and ability to drive results in supply chain operations. Focus on case studies that showcase quantifiable improvements in service, inventory, and cost.

• Research Unilever International: Understand UI's mission, its focus markets, and its unique "agile innovation model." Be prepared to articulate how your skills and experience can contribute to UI's growth objectives.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method, and be ready to discuss your approach to common supply chain challenges. Practice presenting your portfolio and articulating your thought process for case study scenarios.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.