Job Summary:
The Demand Planner is responsible for developing accurate demand forecasts to support effective inventory planning and product availability. This role works closely with Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, Procurement and Finance to align demand plans with business objectives while minimizing stock shortages and excess inventory.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and maintain short-, medium- and long-term demand forecasts based on historical sales, market trends, promotional activities and business plans.
- Coordinate with Sales, Marketing and Trade Marketing teams to gather information on promotions, new product launches, customer activities and market changes.
- Facilitate monthly demand review meetings and support the overall Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process.
- Analyse forecast accuracy, forecast bias and demand variances, and recommend corrective actions.
- Monitor inventory levels, product availability, slow-moving and ageing stocks to minimise out-of-stock situations and excess inventory.
- Identify potential supply or demand risks and communicate them promptly to the relevant stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate demand planning data, assumptions and product information in the planning system.
- Prepare regular reports and analysis on demand forecasts, inventory trends, service levels and key planning indicators.
- Support new product launches, product transitions, discontinuations and phase-in/phase-out planning.
- Work closely with the Supply Planning, Procurement and Logistics teams to ensure demand requirements are aligned with supply capabilities.
- Continuously improve demand planning processes, forecasting tools and reporting accuracy.
- Perform any other duties assigned by the immediate superior or Management.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Statistics, Economics or a related discipline.
- At least 3 years of relevant experience in demand planning, supply planning, inventory planning or sales forecasting, preferably within the FMCG industry.
- Strong analytical and numerical skills with good business understanding.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel; experience with ERP, demand planning or business intelligence systems is an advantage.
- Good communication, presentation and stakeholder-management skills.
- Able to work independently, manage deadlines and respond effectively to changing business priorities.
Key Competencies
- Demand forecasting and data analysis
- Inventory and supply chain planning
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Commercial and market awareness
