What are the responsibilities and job description for the Demand Planner position at L. E. Jones Company?
Position Summary
The Demand Planner is responsible for managing customer demand, order processing, and delivery commitments in alignment with production capacity. This role serves as the primary customer contact for order status, delivery schedules, and demand-related inquiries, ensuring accurate ERP data and effective coordination between Sales, Planning, and Operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Enter, review, and update customer purchase orders in the ERP system.
- Process order changes, cancellations, and confirmations.
- Manage daily and weekly EDI order processing and resolve exceptions.
- Serve as primary contact for customers regarding order status, delivery dates, and product availability.
- Provide proactive communication on potential delays or scheduling constraints.
- Collaborate with Production Planning to align demand with capacity.
- Communicate expedite requests and support scheduling of rush orders.
- Assist Sales with RFQs, delivery estimates, and coordination of pricing updates.
- Maintain Open Order and Past Due reports and monitor backlog alignment.
- Manage customer portals related to order status, demand schedules, and inquiries.
- Participate in process improvement initiatives and SOP updates.
- Provide backup support for order management functions as needed.
- Assist with daily/weekly shipment planning.
Qualifications
Experience
- 2 years of experience in customer service, planning, or order management in a manufacturing or distribution environment.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Experience with ERP systems (Infor Syteline or similar preferred).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Experience with EDI and customer portals preferred.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Performance Expectations
- High accuracy in order entry and demand data.
- Timely customer responsiveness within 24 hours.
- Effective coordination with Planning to meet delivery targets.
- Reduction in past due orders and demand discrepancies.
- Contribution to on-time delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Time management skills necessary to review and act on higher volume of email traffic.
Tools and Systems
- ERP system (Infor Syteline or similar).
- Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Teams, SharePoint).
- Customer EDI systems and portals.
Working Conditions
- Office/Manufacturing environment.
- May require extended hours during high-volume periods.