Demand Planner

Supply Chain Demand PlannerThis position is a highly analytical supply chain role that is responsible for establishing sales forecasts and inventory targets for key strategic clients, as well as for developing demand plans that enable the Inventory Management department to meet inventory and service objectives. The Demand Planner maintains forecast models by exception, leveraging system generated recommendations as well as business intelligence gathered internally (Account Management, Field Services, Client Support, Supply Planning) and externally (Armada clients, external promotions management companies). This person is also responsible for the development and implementation of sustainable and scalable solutions related to inventory management within a redistribution environment.Functional ResponsibilitiesUnderstands the implications and influence of Supply Planners and is able to drive effective communication and action with supply planning staffAssemble and analyze all data pertinent to creating the sales forecast (historical sales, market trends, seasonality, promotions, and inventory levels)Continuously improve forecasting techniques, methods, and approach by quantifying data pulls and recommending solutions focusing on capacity management and department KPIsDetermine best methods to improve forecast accuracyCoordinate cross-functional research activities to reconcile significant variances and refine the forecast model to reflect updated customer demand assumptionsUnderstand how promotional activity, new product distribution, discontinued/replaced items, and seasonality impact volume fluctuationsCollaborate with Supply Planning to design, track, and report on promotionsWork cross functionally with Supply Planning in developing proper stocking strategiesBuild and maintain relevant reports pertaining to Demand Planning processesBuild and maintain relevant Standard Operating Procedures pertaining to Demand Planning processesActively participate in design, testing, and implementation of Blue Yonder upgrades and feature enhancements as neededActively participate in design, testing, and implementation of new tools as neededInteract as appropriate with Field Services, Client Support, and Account Management to attain business intelligence vital to developing the most accurate forecastInteract as necessary with other departments (Transportation, Warehouse Ops, Finance, Engineering) to provide forecast information relevant to their respective areasParticipate in and support new customer integration activitiesManage the Demand Planning function within the financial budgets and assist with budget developmentIdentify continuous improvement opportunities in Demand PlanningLead or participate on project teams as requiredPerform root cause analysis in developing corrective action plansDevelop and manage to relevant KPI's to support and measure the businessAssess technology requirements needed to support current or proposed businessOther duties as assignedSupervisory ResponsibilitiesNoneQualificationsEducation and experience requirementMinimum:2-5 years of inventory management experience and/or proven mastery of business analytics as it relates to inventory managementBachelor's degree in Business, Logistics, Supply Chain, or other relevant experienceStrong analytical abilities and attention to detailExperience using inventory management software (ie Blue Yonder, SAP, Manugistics, etc)Experience using business intelligence applications to pull data, build reports and make business decisions/recommendations (ie COGNOS)Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact cross-functionally, with higher-level management, and with external clientsStrong understanding of Excel and/or PowerpointAbility to set priorities and make decisions in a dynamic work environmentAction oriented, with good problem solving, analytical, and math skillsPreferred:Experience in product redistributionExperience guiding projects and process development skillsExperience planning product with shelf life (ie perishables such as food)Experience planning product with varied lead times (ie international as well as domestic suppliers)Experience planning promotional product and limited time offeringsPhysical Demands and Work EnvironmentWork is usually performed in an office environment with normal noise levels. Involves prolonged sitting and computer usage.Business travel will be on an as needed basis; expectation is less than 1%.DisclaimerThis job description is not intended, and should not be construed to be, an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. It is intended, however, to be an accurate reflection of those principal job elements essential for making decisions related to job performance, employee development and compensation. As such, the incumbent may perform other duties and responsibilities as required. Its contents imply no contractual obligation and may be changed by the company at any time.Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.