Demand Planner

Your Role

The Demand Planner for Global Distributor Markets oversees the forecasting process and collaborates with supply planners across multiple regions. This role is responsible for generating precise demand signals, ensuring seamless coordination with distributors, and supporting Integrated Business Planning (IBP) processes. The planner will work closely with both internal and external stakeholders to execute and facilitate S&OP process, enhance forecast accuracy, streamline supply planning, and drive continuous improvements within the supply chain.

Your Key Tasks

Demand & Supply Chain Planning

• Demand Planning: Validate, consolidate, and manage demand forecasts in alignment with global standards. Collaborate with Business Development Managers (BDMs) and distributors to improve forecast accuracy and create baseline and consensus forecasts in line with the S&OP monthly calendar. Take full ownership of demand forecasting and S&OP facilitation, utilizing quantitative and qualitative methods, historical sales data, market trends, and promotional activities. Ensure alignment across all functions through effective S&OP leadership.
• Collaboration: Work closely with sales, marketing, and production teams to gather insights and ensure alignment on demand planning strategies.
• Data Analysis: Analyse demand patterns, identify trends, and provide actionable insights to improve overall forecast accuracy.
• System Management: Utilize demand planning software - Kinaxis Rapid Response to support forecasting efforts and maintain accurate data.

Additional Responsibilities

• Logistics & Shipment Oversight: Supporting efficient shipment planning in coordination with suppliers, aligning with global Control Tower procedures and highlighting continuous improvement opportunities together with Logistics department.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify areas for process optimization, collaborating with logistics and supply chain teams to streamline operations and drive system enhancements.

Skills and Experience

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance or related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in demand planning, preferably in the FMCG sector.
• Experience in owning and driving the S&OP process in an FMCG company is a strong plus.
• Experience in demand planning software such as Kinaxis, Blue Yonder, SAP IBP, or SAP APO.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities.
• Fluency in English and.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; familiarity with Power BI and SAP/4HANA is a plus.