Demand & Inventory Planner

Position Title: Demand & Inventory Planner

Functional Area: Supply Chain and Operations

Reports To: Corporate Director of S&OP

Position Summary

The Demand & Inventory Planner is responsible for developing accurate demand forecasts, managing procurement activities, and optimizing inventory levels to support business goals and service levels. This role works cross-functionally with sales, marketing, NPD, and operations teams to ensure supply meets demand, minimize costs, and improve customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Demand Planning & Forecasting

• Develop and maintain rolling demand forecasts based on historical data, input from the sales/marketing/NP teams, and other intel.
• Monitor forecast accuracy and conduct corrective actions to improve performance.
• Support product launches, promotions, and lifecycle planning with accurate demand projections.
  
  

Procurement

• Execute procurement activities to ensure timely availability of raw materials, components, and finished goods.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to improve lead times, cost savings, and supply reliability.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with suppliers in alignment with company policies.
• Monitor supplier performance and escalate risks that may affect supply continuity.
  
  

Inventory Management

• Plan and maintain optimal inventory levels to balance cost, risk, and service levels.
• Track inventory performance (doh,turns, aging, excess, obsolescence) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with warehousing and logistics teams to ensure accurate stock levels and timely replenishments.
• Implement inventory optimization strategies such as safety stock calculations and reorder point management.
  
  

Collaboration & Cross-Functional Alignment

• Partner with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Operations to align demand forecasts with supply and financial plans.
• Lead/participate in the monthly S&OP process to drive consensus on demand and supply alignment.
• Communicate risks, opportunities, and recommendations to senior leadership.
  
  

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Provide regular reporting on demand forecasts, procurement status, and inventory performance.
• Use analytics to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Maintain accurate and timely data in planning, ERP, and procurement systems.
  
  

Qualifications

• Education & Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Economics, or related field
• 3–5 years of experience in demand planning, procurement, and/or inventory management.
• Skills & Competencies:
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills; proficiency in Excel and planning/procurement tools (e.g., D365, NetSuite, Sage, Great Plains, Tableau).
• Solid knowledge of procurement best practices and supplier management.
• Strong understanding of inventory management principles (safety stock, EOQ, reorder points).
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Preferred:
• APICS/IBF/ISM certifications (CPIM, CSCP, CPF, CPSM) are a plus.
• Experience in Asia supply planning, manufacturing, outdoor playsets and structures
  

Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Forecast accuracy (MAPE, BIAS, etc.)
• Inventory days on hand, turns and stockout rates
• Supplier performance (OTD, cost savings, quality metrics)
• Procurement cost control
• Contribution to S&OP effectiveness
  
  

Compensation will be dependent on level of experience!