What are the responsibilities and job description for the Demand Specialist position at Baxters North America Inc?
Scope of Job: The Demand Specialist ensures product availability to meet customer demand while maintaining optimal inventory levels. This role connects market activity with supply chain operations by using data analysis and forecasting to guide production, distribution, and inventory decisions. Maintain customer-based forecasts and use forecast performance tools to improve demand accuracy. Collaborate weekly and monthly with key external customers to develop the best possible demand plan. Support the monthly S&OP process by maintaining the unconstrained customer demand plan in the ERP system and driving appropriate follow-up actions. Analyze historical sales, pricing, demand patterns, market trends, and other statistical data to prepare production schedule forecasts. Create and maintain forecast tracking tools, identify performance gaps through root cause analysis, and improve forecasting and replenishment processes.
Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with Sales and customers to obtain customer-based forecasts, promotional information, scheduled trials, sales history, and other relevant demand planning inputs to develop a monthly unconstrained forecast.
- Participate in Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) by organizing the statistical, sales, and customer forecasts and related analysis for presentation, discussion, and resolution.
- Meet with other functional area managers and executives to review strategies and align Supply Chain Operations with Business Goals.
- Develop accurate demand forecasts using historical sales data, market trends, and statistical models to predict future product demand and identify potential supply chain disruptions.
- Partner with Procurement to identify opportunities to meet customer demands during constrained supply periods.
- Support supply chain planning, inventory management, and logistics coordination.
- Prepare and maintain relevant reports pertaining to demand planning process.
- Address demand related queries and issues in a timely manner.
- Serve as the supply chain liaison for the commercial organization - providing them with a single source for questions, information, or assistance.
- Collaborate with production and supporting departments to ensure the food safety and quality of our products.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Education: Bachelor’s degree required.
Experience: 3-5 years of experience preferred. Deep knowledge of the demand planning and Supply Chain functions with solid knowledge of the overall data flow and impacts.
Competencies: Demand Forecasting, ERP Systems, Inventory Optimization, Planning, Trend Analysis, Pricing Analysis, Inventory Control Software, General Data Analysis Software, Analytical, Detail Oriented, Strong Communication Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Customer Focus, Teamwork, Integrity, and Operational Excellence.
Physical Requirements: Requires prolonged sitting and continuous use of computer. May lift, carry, push, or pull objects up to 10 lbs.