Demand Planning Manager

REPORTING TO: Director of Business Process Optimization

LOCATION : Remote to start; shift to hybrid model based in Austin, TX in 2026

JOB DESCRIPTION: We are seeking a highly motivated, analytical, and accountable Demand Planning Manager to build and lead our forecasting process. As a key member of our Operations team, you will be responsible for developing accurate demand forecasts, achieving cross-functional alignment on projected revenue, and communicating effectively to ensure optimal inventory levels that meet customer needs and support our ambitious growth plans. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape a critical function within a fast-paced startup, make a significant impact on our success, and interface with every part of the business.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement robust demand planning processes and methodologies tailored to a startup environment, and continuously improve them
• Generate accurate and timely demand forecasts (short-term and long-term) at various levels of aggregation, considering historical sales data, market trends, competitor landscape, seasonality, promotional activities, and new product introductions
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, and Operations teams to gather relevant insights and assumptions for forecasting
• Lead regular demand review meetings with cross-functional teams to discuss forecast accuracy, identify risks and opportunities, and drive consensus
• Develop and track KPIs related to forecast accuracy
• Analyze forecast variances and identify root causes, implementing corrective actions to improve forecast accuracy
• Work closely with the Operations team to ensure alignment between demand plans and supply plans, optimizing inventory levels and minimizing stockouts or excess inventory
• Develop cross-functional inventory allocation process for constrained inventory scenarios
• Contribute to the development and implementation of inventory management strategies, NPI processes, and post-launch analyses
• Support the development of S&OP processes as the company continues to grow, including presenting in the monthly executive S&OP meeting
• Act as the demand planning SME and tester in any software implementations
• Put together AOP with Finance and Sales
• Ad hoc projects and analyses as needed

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Statistics, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or a related analytical role, within the consumer goods industry. Combination of startup and corporate experience is highly valued.
• Proficiency in statistical forecasting methods and demand planning techniques
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable insights
• Very organized and able to keep track of information communicated via various modes (emails, Slacks, meetings, secondhand, etc.)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate and influence effectively across different teams and levels of the organization
• Responsible and accountable, with ability to continuously follow up as needed
• Expert proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets (advanced formulas, pivot tables/charts, data analysis, macros, etc.)
• Experience with demand planning software and/or ERP systems
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and often ambiguous startup environment; flexibility to change directions as needed
• Experience in other areas of supply chain
• Software implementation experience
• Excited by the idea of manually forecasting in Excel or Google Sheets
• Passion for pets and an understanding of the pet food market

ABOUT JINX: Founded by dog parents and powered by dog lovers, Jinx is your new go-to for healthy, high-quality food and treats for your dog. Backed by science and rigorously tested, Jinx provides balanced options for dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes. Jinx is more than just a dog food company: it's the future of pet wellness.