Demand Planner

Position Summary:
The Demand Planner is responsible for developing and maintaining high-quality consensus demand plans by leveraging statistical analysis, incorporating cross-functional inputs, and applying sound business judgment. This role will collaborate closely with Analytics and Finance to optimize forecasting models and parameters, while partnering with Sales, Marketing, and product launch teams to align business objectives with final demand plans. The Demand Planner will play a key role in the Integrated Business Planning (IBP) process and ensure demand planning excellence to support organizational growth and efficiency.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Create and maintain high-quality demand forecasts and analytics using historical orders, item master data, macroeconomic and market trends, seasonality, promotions, and product lifecycle management.

• Serve as the primary demand planning contact for Sales, Marketing, Finance, IBP Franchise Manager, and Global Operations Master Scheduler(s).

• Lead or facilitate the demand planning process, ensuring alignment with other Demand Planners and efficient execution of monthly planning cycles.

• Partner with cross-functional leaders to document key assumptions, communicate demand implications, and identify risks during monthly review cycles.

• Collaborate with the global IBP team to ensure effective communication of demand plans across the supply chain function.

• Support and participate in monthly demand planning working sessions and Executive Demand Reviews.

• Ensure demand plans are reviewed and approved by required business and financial leaders per defined process cadence.

• Represent demand planning within the Integrated Business Planning process, escalating issues appropriately while demonstrating problem-solving and thought leadership.

• Support product lifecycle management activities, including new product launches, exits, and SKU rationalization initiatives based on demand and market trends.

• Partner with analysts and modelers to develop reporting tools that enhance business decision-making.

• Drive continuous improvement in processes, procedures, and technologies within demand planning.

• Analyze forecast accuracy metrics, recommend corrective actions, and partner with central forecasting teams to improve forecast quality.

• Provide training and education to colleagues and cross-functional stakeholders as needed.

• Stay informed on industry best practices and recommend adoption where appropriate.

Education & Special Training:

• Bachelor’s degree required; preferred concentration in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Sales, Marketing, or Finance.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in a similar demand planning or forecasting role.

• Proficiency with ERP systems, Excel, and Power BI preferred.

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with proven problem-solving abilities.

• Experience managing large datasets and creating consolidated reports.

• Strong collaboration skills with ability to build effective cross-functional relationships.

• Strategic mindset with the ability to analyze trends for planning, forecasting, and decision-making.

Physical & Mental Requirements:

• Strong analytical/quantitative capabilities.

• Ability to exercise discretion and independence in applying expertise.

• Excellent time management, organizational, and prioritization skills.

• Effective interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to manage conflict, stress, and projects with minimal supervision.

• Strong ethics and integrity in a fast-paced, competitive environment.