Demand Planner

Responsible for the management of Forecasting Process in Latin America (Brazil, Andes, MCAC, South Cone) necessary to drive effective production and materials plans and participate in managing resultant inventory levels, including; safety stocks, slow and obsolete stock and inventory levels required to mitigate risk through new product introductions. Work directly with Product & Sales Managers to ensure integrity of forecasts to marketing plans, particularly with regard to new product launches, cannibalization and ongoing promotions. Facilitate the reporting of forecast information and market drivers on a monthly basis through monthly forecast review meeting to aid in managing the Supply Chain.

JOB OVERVIEW

The Demand Planner will play a pivotal role in optimizing inventory levels, ensuring product availability, and maximizing customer satisfaction. This individual will collaborate with various departments to develop accurate demand forecasts, analyze market trends, and implement strategies to meet business goals.

Let's talk about responsibilities

• Develop and maintain comprehensive demand forecasts based on historical data, market trends, and input from sales and marketing teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather relevant information, such as sales forecasts, inventory levels, and promotional activities, to enhance demand planning accuracy.
• Utilize advanced forecasting techniques and tools to improve forecasting precision and optimize inventory levels.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess demand planning effectiveness and recommend adjustments as needed.
• Work closely with production, procurement, and logistics teams to ensure alignment between demand plans and supply chain capabilities.
• Identify and communicate potential supply chain risks and develop contingency plans to mitigate disruptions.
• Lead collaborative planning meetings to align stakeholders on demand forecasts, inventory targets, and other relevant metrics.
• Provide regular reports and insights to management, highlighting key trends, risks, and opportunities.

Let's talk about Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or related field; advanced degree is a plus.
• Proven experience in demand planning.
• Strong analytical skills with expertise in forecasting methodologies and tools.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to foster collaboration across different teams.
• Proficiency in using demand planning software and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Detail-oriented with a strategic mindset, capable of balancing short-term needs with long-term objectives.
• Knowledge of supply chain management principles and best practices.
• Certification in supply chain management (e.g., APICS) is a plus.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Advanced skill level in Excel. Proficient in Word, Power Point and Outlook.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to general questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. This includes but is not limited to policies and procedures.
• Must be detail orientated and capable of identifying, evaluating, and correcting complex problems using root/cause analysis.
• Proactive in identifying opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation.
• Demonstrate leadership by fostering a collaborative and inclusive team culture.
• Engage with cross-functional teams to build strong relationships and facilitate effective collaboration.
• Proactively address challenges, demonstrating resilience in the face of setbacks.
• Align demand forecasting with sales and marketing strategies to drive overall business success.
• Identify and address potential supply chain risks through innovative solutions.
• Prioritize customer satisfaction by ensuring product availability and timely delivery.
• Align demand plans with customer expectations and market trends.
• Pursue ongoing professional development opportunities to stay at the forefront of demand planning best practices.
• Strong knowledge of ISO9001.
• Experience with ERP system.
• Experience with Oracle MRP/DRP, Demantra and/or Oracle Demand Cloud.
• Experience with Tableau, or Cognos.