Global Apparel Demand Planner

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today. At New Balance, We Got Now.

JOB MISSION:
The Global Apparel Demand Planner is responsible for leading and guiding the Global Apparel Demand Planning process while managing both Regional and Category forecasting assignments. This role uses analytics to inform decisions related to regional product assortments, product sourcing, inventory planning, and supply planning. This role is accountable for driving a consensus Purchase Plan for their assigned Regions that considers multiple data and cross-functional inputs.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Facilitate the creation of seasonal forecasts and review them with Product Management, Merchandising, Finance, and Supply Chain Planning to ensure alignment with the Brand strategy.
• Provide insight and analysis to the Value Chain regarding the long-range statistical forecast to improve Supply Chain and Manufacturing planning.
• Organize Demand Reviews with Global Merchandising, Product, Finance, key business, and executive leadership, creating reporting and providing analysis on regional trends.
• Operate as a key partner supporting the product line plan development process in collaboration with Product Management and Merchandising through style efficiency and historical performance analysis.
• Prepare KPI reporting pertaining to forecast error, provide root cause analysis, and monitor trends to drive continuous improvement in the forecast accuracy to meet established targets.
• Partner closely with Supply Planning, Merchandising and key business leaders to manage forecast risk and production capacity challenges within the planning cycle.
• Communicate the seasonal forecast requirements to the Supply Planning and Sourcing teams through the consolidated global purchase plan.
• Perform Demand Planning system maintenance to initiate and optimize statistical planning models for the assigned Regions and Product Categories.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent plus a minimum of 2 years of related experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency in statistical forecasting methods with the understanding of their financial and operational impacts.
• Experience with Sales and Operations Planning process along the ability to effectively interact with executive leadership through excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of o9 DP, SAP/APO, Oracle Demantra, or other demand management software is desired.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities, management time effectively, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and consistently meet required deadlines.
• Apparel industry experience a plus.
• APICS or IBF certification also a plus.

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Regular Associate Benefits

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks – opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs – that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You’ll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword – it’s part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced “Work from Anywhere” (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates and takes affirmative action to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran.