Demand Planner

Summary Description:

• The Demand Planner is responsible for providing an unbiased weekly shipping forecast for Supply Chain/ Manufacturing and input to the financial monthly outlook. Act as the primary liaison between Sales and Supply Chain.

Essential Functions:

• Utilizes forecasting tool (SAP) to create weekly shipping forecasts by account at the SKU and brand/ pack levels. Work with the different statistical models available to optimize the baseline forecast
• Contribute to the S&OP process. Develop comprehensive demand requirements plan in collaboration with Commercial Strategy team to support S&OP processes.
• Inputs from customer and market data should be considered from IRI, EDI, POS, etc. when developing forecast.
• Incorporates causal factors (primarily provided by sales/marketing/customer) into the baseline forecast using techniques within SAP. These factors include but are not limited to promotional activities, competitive action, changes in shelf space or DCs, seasonality, displays, pricing updates, etc.
• Lead meetings with Sales Account Managers to come up with a consensus forecast by plant, pack size, and customer
• Lead collaborative external meetings for key accounts to incorporate relevant information in the forecast
• Participates with Sales and the New Product teams to develop and provide pipeline forecasts and other demand related information such as similar accounts forecasts, etc.
• Provides strategic analysis and recommendations to Operations, Finance, Sales, related to demand and long-term product, market and channel trends
• Take ownership of the key accounts by updating the forecast and LE on a weekly basis
• Utilizes forecasting tool (SAP) to provide Finance and Sales with monthly financial snapshot
• Assists and provides Supply Chain team with forecasts for various projects such as customer visits, sourcing decisions, design changes, discontinuations, etc.
• Collaborates with the Customer Experience team to understand order basis
• Creates various ad hoc reports from SAP, Excel Analysis, Power BI, or other systems
• Troubleshoots demand related issues
• Ensure that demand plans, item setups and planning parameters are current, up to date and accurate.
• Provides weekly and monthly accuracy results at plant, brand pack and SKU levels. Find methods to improve these metrics to gain improvements in planning and reducing inventory needs as they relate to safety stock
• Elevates the understanding of forecasting process and methodologies throughout the organization
• Develops into a demand planning expert in the use of SAP and any associated functions
• Assist in internal training opportunities
• Responsible for ensuring Food Safety and Food Quality policies and procedures are adhered to including but not limited by SQF Code

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Ability to establish, meet deadlines and prioritize work
• Demonstrated problem solving skills
• Ability to initiate, compile, analyze and provide accurate reporting
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Power BI
• Excellent interpersonal skills, both written and verbal
• Ownership – is eager to take ownership of responsibilities and challenges; can and does think independently to excel in role
• Results Focus – exhibits commitment to goals and consistently delivers results; demonstrates personal initiative and independent motivation to achieve goals and objectives; takes risks when necessary; undaunted by obstacles
• Communication – relates well to people; builds rapport along all dimensions of organization; resolves conflicts; provides clear directions and information
• Customer Focus – understands and meets needs of customers and business partners; builds positive customer relationships
• Problem Solving – breaks down problems and generates a range of solutions; thinks outside the box and uses ideas of others to help develop solutions; evaluates and acts on results of actions

Proficiency Level:

• N/A

Education and Experience:

• Post-secondary Diploma or equivalent in Business Management and/or related field will be preferred.
• Experience with demand planning software such as SAP, SAP, i2 etc.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Previous experience working with Sales teams and Retail Grocery buyers
• APICS of IBF certification an asset

Working Conditions:

• Physical Demands– Continuously sitting for prolonged periods, as the job is administrative in nature.
• Visual/Sensory – This position requires attention to detail, requiring attention with one or two senses at a time.
• Work environment – Work and environment fasted paced, requiring ability to remain focused under pressure.
• Mental Stress – There is pronounced pressure from deadlines, project management, accuracy, or similar demands.

Other Duties:

• This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.