Job Description
Demand Planner (Hybrid Working 3 days office, 2 days WFH)
We are seeking an analytical and detail-oriented Demand Planner to join our clients supply chain team. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering accurate forecasts, analysing demand trends, and supporting the business in achieving optimal stock availability while reducing excess inventory and improving forecast accuracy. This is a hybrid position, requiring 3 days per week in the office and 2 days working from home.
Benefits include: 33 days holiday, Discretionary Bonus, 5% Pension, Private Medical (after 3 years service).
Key Responsibilities
* Develop, maintain, and improve the demand forecasting models using statistical tools, historical sales data, and market intelligence.
* Lead the monthly S&OP / demand review process, providing insight into forecast changes and key business drivers.
* Analyse sales patterns, customer trends, seasonality, promotions, and product lifecycle data to deliver accurate forecasts.
* Collaborate closely with Supply Planning, Sales, Finance, and Operations to understand commercial plans and align forecasts accordingly.
* Monitor forecast accuracy and bias; implement corrective actions to continuously optimise performance.
* Support new product launches by forecasting demand, modelling scenarios, and analysing early sales trends.
* Work with the ERP/forecasting system to ensure data integrity, parameter accuracy, and reliable output.
* Provide regular reporting on KPI metrics such as forecast accuracy (MAPE), inventory levels, stock availability, and service levels.
* Identify risks and opportunities in demand, escalating significant variances early.
* Contribute to supply chain improvement projects, process development, and system enhancements.
Key Requirements
* Strong, demonstrable Demand Planning & forecasting experience within Supply Chain - Essential
* Advanced analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
* Proficiency in Excel (VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, data modelling; Power BI desirable).
* Experience using forecasting or planning software (SAP, Oracle, Kinaxis, Anaplan, NetSuite, or similar).
* Strong communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders and present data-driven insights.
* Commercial awareness and ability to understand factors impacting demand.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and work to tight deadlines.
* Comfortable working in a hybrid role with 3 days office-based.