Demand Planner

Position Title: Demand Planner

Department: Supply Chain Management

Location: SNF India, Visakhapatnam

Reports To: Senior Management

Position Summary: SNF India is seeking an experienced Demand Planner to join our team in Visakhapatnam. The Demand Planner will be responsible for developing and managing demand forecasts, leading the demand review process, and ensuring effective integration with sales and supply chain operations. This role is pivotal in achieving accurate demand forecasting, optimizing inventory levels, and supporting the overall supply chain strategy to drive top-line profitability.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Demand Understanding and Forecasting:
• Accountable for understanding all sources of demand for the company's business.
• Develop accurate demand forecasts at appropriate levels, horizons, and intervals.
• Create a single demand forecast incorporating input from sales, marketing, finance, and other relevant roles using a consensus forecasting process.
2. Demand Review and S&OP Processes:
• Lead the Demand Review process and be an integral part of the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) and Sales and Operations Execution (S&OE) processes.
• Support the monthly Integrated Business Planning process by working closely with Sales, DG team, Supply Chain, and Product Managers.
3. Collaboration and Advocacy:
• Act as an advocate for demand principles within the Business Unit and Sales organizations.
• Serve as the key interface between Sales and Supply Chain, maintaining strong working relationships with all Business Heads, Regional Heads.
4. Forecast Accuracy and Improvement:
• Accountable for the demand process, continually improving output, accuracy, and bias using forecasting tools.
• Include causal factors such as weather, natural disasters, and competitor actions in demand forecasts, and model events like sales promotions, marketing activities, and economic factors.
5. Performance Metrics and Reporting:
• Implement performance metrics to measure the return on forecasting value.
• Report demand metrics automatically across the corporate enterprise.
• Measure order fill rates and customer service levels.
6. Forecasting Techniques and Tools:
• Use statistical forecasting methods in consultation with the forecast analyst support team and implement these methods in forecasting tools after alignment with stakeholders.
• Shape demand using what-if analysis and scenario planning.
7. Integration with Supply Planning:
• Link demand forecasting and supply planning using the Sales and Operations Planning process.
• Continuously improve forecasting techniques, accuracy, methods, and approaches.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in demand planning and supply chain management.
• Expertise in developing demand forecasts and managing forecasting tools.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in statistical forecasting methods.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with experience working across various departments and levels.
• Ability to continuously improve forecasting processes and techniques.

Education:

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A Masters degree is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum 8 years of experience in demand planning or a related field.

Skills:

• Proficiency in demand forecasting and supply chain management software.
• Strong problem-solving and strategic thinking abilities.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment.