Demand Planner (Forecast Analyst)

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain demand forecasts at multiple levels (product, customer, plant) using statistical models, historical sales data, and market trends.
• Serve as a functional expert in forecasting/demand planning process.
• Candidate will be required to learn the SAP-IBP forecasting system.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Supply Chain teams to gather input on demand drivers and promotional activities.
• Use pilot opportunities to evaluate conclusions.
• Gain consensus on resultant forecasts from Sales and Operations to develop a demand plan.
• Leverage IT for collecting and cleansing data.
• Monitor forecast accuracy and adjust as needed to reflect changes in the business environment.
• Analyze variances between forecasts and actual sales and identify key drivers of discrepancies.
• Develop planning strategies for new and discontinued products.
• Participate in Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) meetings.
• Optimize inventory levels to balance service levels and cost efficiency.
• Provide insights and reports to support business decisions and planning strategies.

Minimum Job Requirements:

Education/Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Statistics, or related field. A degree in mathematics, statistics, or business is preferred.

Experience:

• 2–5 years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or supply chain.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong analytical skills with experience using forecasting software/tools (e.g., SAP IBP, Oracle Demantra, Excel, or similar).
• Quantitative background
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups of associates and customers ranging from entry-level to executive-level positions.
• Demonstrated leadership and the ability to develop positive interdepartmental relationships.
• Proficient in Excel, Forecasting Software, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work with multiple departments, including but not limited to Sales and Marketing, Operations, Finance, and IT.
• Passion for learning with excellent problem-solving and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in consumer goods, food/beverage industry.
• APICS or IBF certification is a plus.
• Familiarity with S&OP processes.

Expectations:

• Will demonstrate, promote, and exemplify the Company's Purpose, Mission, Vision and Values.