What are the responsibilities and job description for the Regional Demand Planner position at Knauf North America?
Knauf Insulation North America is the world's fastest-growing insulation manufacturer. We are wholly committed to the conservation of the environment while also sustainably developing and manufacturing a comprehensive line of acoustical fiberglass insulation for residential, commercial, industrial, marine, OEM and metal building applications, using post-consumer recycled materials.
We welcome passionate and creative individuals who thrive in an entrepreneurial, collaborative and ever-changing environment.
Our benefits go beyond just providing coverage.
We’re committed to the whole you – your health, wealth, peace of mind, self and community.
Our benefits include:
Apply online or contact us to hear why our employees appreciate being part of the Knauf family!
About the Role:
The Regional Demand Planner is responsible for forecasting product demand within a defined region to support balanced inventory and strong customer service outcomes. In partnership with sales and marketing, this role develops data-driven demand plans, analyzes trends and performance drivers, and leads continuous improvement efforts to enhance forecast accuracy and operational effectiveness.
Responsibilities
Demand Forecasting
Education:
We welcome passionate and creative individuals who thrive in an entrepreneurial, collaborative and ever-changing environment.
Our benefits go beyond just providing coverage.
We’re committed to the whole you – your health, wealth, peace of mind, self and community.
Our benefits include:
- Free on-site Health Care Facility
- Medical, Dental, Vision – starting on day one!
- Virtual Medical Services
- Fertility and adoption benefits
- 401(k) Retirement Plan (earn 100% matching on your first 6% contribution and fully vested day one)
- Paid parental leave
- Paid family leave
- Company provided Salary Continuance (Short- term Disability)
- Company paid life insurance
- Paid Holidays
- Vacation
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Plus, more!
Apply online or contact us to hear why our employees appreciate being part of the Knauf family!
About the Role:
The Regional Demand Planner is responsible for forecasting product demand within a defined region to support balanced inventory and strong customer service outcomes. In partnership with sales and marketing, this role develops data-driven demand plans, analyzes trends and performance drivers, and leads continuous improvement efforts to enhance forecast accuracy and operational effectiveness.
Responsibilities
Demand Forecasting
- Develop and maintain demand forecasts for assigned products and markets within the region, utilizing historical sales data, market intelligence, and input from sales and marketing teams.
- Analyze demand patterns, seasonality, and market trends to identify factors influencing product demand and adjust forecasts accordingly.
- Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to incorporate promotional activities, product launches, and market insights into the demand planning process.
- Work closely with supply chain and inventory management teams to ensure alignment between demand forecasts and inventory levels.
- Monitor inventory levels and stock availability to identify potential stockouts or excess inventory situations and take proactive measures to mitigate risks.
- Participate in the S&OP process to provide input on demand forecasts, inventory projections, and capacity requirements.
- Provide insights and recommendations to support decision-making during S&OP meetings and drive continuous improvement in the planning process.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to demand planning, including forecast accuracy, bias, and error metrics.
- Analyze variances between forecasted and actual sales to identify root causes of discrepancies and drive corrective actions.
- Prepare regular reports and dashboards to communicate demand planning performance and insights to stakeholders.
- Identify opportunities to improve demand forecasting accuracy, efficiency, and effectiveness through process enhancements, system enhancements, or training initiatives.
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Statistics, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
- APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or equivalent professional certification desired.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in supply chain management and demand planning, preferably in a regional or multi-state environment.
- Knowledge of the building and construction industry
- Knowledge of insulation manufacturing products and processes preferred
- Knowledge of, and ability to effectively utilize, demand planning software and tools (e.g. SAP APO, Oracle Demantra)
- Ability to communicate effectively throughout the organization
- Ability to make quick, thorough decisions
- Ability to motivate and energize a team to produce winning solutions
- Ability to partner with and support colleagues both internally and externally
- Ability to work hands-on in an industrial manufacturing environment, as well as in a corporate environment, as applicable
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- Ability to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability within the organization
- Ability to instill an environment of inclusion, where all employees feel that they can contribute and impact the company in a positive manner
- Ability to support employee retention and engagement to ensure a sustainable workforce
- Effective negotiation skills
- Demonstrated analytical capability with the ability to evaluate large and complex data sets, synthesize quantitative and qualitative insights, and translate findings into actionable, results-oriented recommendations
- Maintains a strong focus on data accuracy, integrity, and accountability in decision-making
- Effective prioritization and time management skills
- Follow-up skills
- Proactive in identifying areas of opportunity and suggesting ideas for improvement
- Effective public speaking and presentation skills
- Computer skills in MS Windows environment; proficient in Word, PowerPoint and Excel