Demand Planning Analyst

Job Description Summary

This position is responsible for the short- and long-term demand planning and forecasting activities associated with customers and products. The Demand Planner is accountable for the Demand portion of the monthly SIOP process which involves compiling forecasts and gaining business alignment to the Demand Plan. The plan is then passed to suppliers for long term inventory and capacity planning. The Demand Planner also works with the Supply Planner to ensure decisions are carried out in a timely and effective manner. This position reports to the Supply Chain Manager.

The duties and responsibilities of the position will consist of, but are not limited to, the following:

• Review historical sales trends, research demand drivers, prepare forecast data, develop statistical forecast models, and evaluate forecast results
• Interact with sales, marketing, and customer finance to develop a consensus and forecast event drivers across categories and customers
• Develop complete analysis/timeline related to demand for new product launches
• Develop aggregate level forecast to align cross-functional planning
• Use and maintain Demantra Demand Management and Salesforce as the primary forecasting system tools
• Maintain metrics/scorecards on KPI’s, including forecast accuracy, fill rate, inventory turns, and excess & obsolete inventory
• Serve as a strategic partner to present trends, information, and recommendations to cross functional teams and senior leaders
• Provide regular and ad-hoc analyses (e.g. in-month projections, anticipated account inventory buy-downs, margin enhancement buy in’s…etc.) to gain endorsement to the forecast at the Customer/Brand level, with a focus on Regular Flow Business, Promotions, and New Product Launches
• Interact with vendors regarding planning strategies
• Accurately forecast (within a tolerance) demand for items
• Analyze performance and productivity of launches/promotions
• Provide analysis to drive alignment on decisions related to Service and Inventory
• Analyze the business to identify opportunities to gain/optimize margin
• Minimize unproductive inventory via planning, accurate forecasts and sku rationalization
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Work Experience: 2 years of experience in a Supply Chain role, strong math and computer skills, specifically Microsoft Office Suite, knowledge of inventory metrics, ability to adapt to changing environment, strong team player with an ability to work in a team environment and independently, ability to improves processes and create efficiencies
• Education: Bachelors Degree
• Computer Skills: Intermediate level MS Excel skills, proficient with MS Word and Outlook. Forecasting tool and ERP knowledge

Preferred Requirements:

• Work Experience: 5 years of experience in Demand Planning role
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain or related field
• Computer Skills: Mid to advanced Excel skills. Demantra forecasting tool experience. Oracle ERP knowledge