Job Summary: The Demand Planner is responsible for developing, maintaining, and executing demand forecasts and planning to ensure optimal inventory levels, minimize stockouts, and meet customer demand efficiently. This role involves close collaboration with various departments, including sales, marketing, finance, and supply chain, to gather and analyze data, identify trends, and support business objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Forecasting and Demand Planning:
- Develop and maintain accurate demand forecasts using statistical models, historical data, and market trends.
- Collaborate with sales, marketing, and finance teams to incorporate promotional plans, product launches, and seasonal trends into forecasts.
- Monitor and adjust forecasts based on changing market conditions, customer orders, and sales data.
Inventory Management:
- Ensure optimal inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing excess and obsolete stock.
- Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with supply chain and procurement teams to address supply chain disruptions and mitigate risks.
- Conduct regular reviews of inventory metrics and recommend adjustments to improve inventory turnover and reduce carrying costs.
Data Analysis and Reporting:
- Analyze demand patterns, sales trends, and market data to identify opportunities for improvement and drive business decisions.
- Generate regular and ad-hoc reports on forecast accuracy, inventory performance, and other key metrics.
- Present findings and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between demand forecasts and business objectives.
- Communicate forecast changes, risks, and opportunities to relevant stakeholders.
- Participate in sales and operations planning (S&OP) meetings to provide insights and support decision-making.
Continuous Improvement:
- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance demand planning accuracy and efficiency.
- Stay updated on industry best practices, tools, and technologies to continuously improve forecasting and planning capabilities.
- Participate in relevant training and development programs to enhance skills and knowledge.
Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Statistics, or a related field. A master's degree or professional certification (e.g., APICS, CPIM) is a plus.
- Experience: 3+ years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or a related role within supply chain management.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in demand planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle Demantra) and advanced Excel skills. Knowledge of statistical forecasting methods and tools.
- Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present data and recommendations clearly and concisely.
- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and build strong relationships with stakeholders.
- Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in forecasting and data analysis.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.
