Senior Demand Planner, Supply Chain

POSITION SUMMARY

The primary role of the Senior Demand Planner, Supply Chain is developing demand forecasts by SKU at multiple levels by reviewing sales trends, researching demand drivers, and developing statistical forecast models. This is achieved by using data such as sales forecasts, shipment histories, marketing plans, and leading cross-functional discussions. Development of the demand forecast requires robust analytical capabilities and the ability to develop statistical forecasts. This position requires an organized and self-motivated person to create and manage the true customer demand signals to align the rest of the supply chain and company resources.

The Senior Demand Planner, Supply Chain is the integration point into the sales and operations organization, and this position leads the demand review dialogue each month with key counterparts in Sales, Engineering, Channel, Product Management and Finance; working in collaboration to identify demand and forecast exceptions and apply best practices for root cause analysis and corrective action.

The Senior Demand Planner, Supply Chain is entrusted to develop and maintain professional relationships with supply chain planning partners. This position is charged with making recommendations that impact the demand plan and communicating those recommendations to stakeholders. This person is a well-rounded individual who encompasses analytical, communication and leadership skills. They can quickly identify deviations from expected results and other disruptions and are able to promptly resolve any issues.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS STATEMENT

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop forecasts (operational forecasts) at multiple levels of aggregation for multiple time horizons as part of a demand planning function
• Review historical sales trends, research demand drivers, prepare forecast data, develop statistical forecast models, and evaluate forecast results
• Compare statistical forecast data, research sales, margin, historical data and trends when creating demand forecasts
• Analyze all data and create the demand plan based on historical sales, market trends, seasonality, and promotions
• Coordinate cross-functional research activities to reconcile significant variances and refine the forecast model to reflect updated sales and marketing assumptions
• Interact with Sales, Engineering, Channel, Product Management and Finance to understand demand forecast drivers
• Utilize a collaborative and consensus approach by working with Sales, Engineering, Channel, Product Management and Finance to obtain and ensure that current and accurate information is used for demand forecasts
• Maintain forecast profiles and requirements in our forecasting software - SCP 4.0
• WMAPE and bias analysis for high level adjustments needed
• Manage statistical forecast exceptions by utilizing demand planning exception reports to identify and fix potential issues
• Create, maintain, review and report out planning KPI's
• Provide data, analysis and suggestions to drive KPI improvements
• Work with various cross-functional teams on projects such as new product launches, line extensions, product discontinuations, etc
• Work with Channel and Sales to develop promotional forecasts and review these forecasts during the monthly SIOP process
• Prepare and present data findings at monthly demand meetings and as part of the SIOP process
• Ensure demand forecast is shared/received in the format, level of detail, and timing required by all customers and supply chain partners with documented assumptions
• Communicate variances between existing forecasts, plans and actuals
• Determine and communicate forecast confidence, including risks and opportunities, to relevant functional groups
• Support demand planning processes with data and analysis
• Maintain and update item history, collaborate with Sales and Channel to identify and correct exceptions and anomalies in the statistical forecast that may impact accuracy; choose and apply the appropriate forecasting algorithms and parameters
• Coordinate and collaborate across departments and functions on strategies to improve the demand planning and SIOP process
• Participate as a key member in each step of the monthly SIOP process
• Other responsibilities and projects as may be assigned

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Sales Management, Supply Chain or related field, required
• APICS, CPIM or CSCP certification, a plus

EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCIES

• Minimum 5 years of experience in Forecasting, Demand Planning, or SIOP
• Self-motivated with strong analytical skills, report creation, attention to detail and ability to manipulate large volumes of data extracting key information
• Working knowledge of demand planning systems
• Advance knowledge of Excel
• Proficiency in MS Power BI and SQL are a plus.
• Ability to Data Mine and extract key analysis
• Knowledge or exposure to forecasting and forecast analysis techniques
• Demonstrated proficiency in statistics, forecasting and forecasting methods with an understanding of their financial and operational impacts
• Passionate and high-energy team player who possesses diplomacy and cooperative style necessary to positively influence others
• A change agent with a proven track record
• Self-motivated to trouble shoot and suggest improvements in current reporting, analysis and process
• Strong report creation skillset
• Able to communicate effectively across functions, cultures and levels of the organization, securing positive outcomes despite conflicting objectives
• Ability to work on issues where the analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth knowledge of organizational objectives, as well as an understanding of company culture
• Able to implement strategic policies when selecting methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining results
• Demonstrates the ability to change the thinking of, or gain acceptance from others, without damaging the relationship

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods; use hands to handle or feel and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk and stoop, kneel or crouch. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Substantial time is spent working on a computer and may be performed primarily in an office setting. Working extended and flexible hours may be requested occasionally.