Analyst, Demand Planning

Location: Hershey, PA

Department: IDP Planning

Summary of Role:

The Analyst, IDP Planning supports the development of accurate and timely US demand forecasts by integrating statistical models with inputs from cross-functional partners including Marketing, Sales, and Finance. This role contributes to the Integrated Business Management (IBM) process and supports key launches and events by translating commercial insights into operational plans. The analyst collaborates across teams to identify risks and opportunities, document forecast assumptions, and help drive decisions that support financial goals, service levels, and inventory efficiency.

Role Responsibilities:

• Own line‑item forecasts for assigned customers/segments using statistical forecasting integrated with commercial inputs (promotions, new items, planogram changes, seasonality, base trends).
• Works with relevant teams to identify, isolate, and appropriately size R&Os; grasps challenges and topline/bottom line impact associated with gap-filling activities, assesses solutions and understands trade-offs, and influences/enables key decision making to maximize financial targets, minimize costs, and protect customer relationships
• Contribute to new item launch planning and execution by coordinating inputs and ensuring timely system updates.
• Participate in core planning processes (e.g., KEM meetings, SKU rationalization) as a representative of the Demand Planning team.
• Maintains thorough and explicit record of key planning assumptions by building block and key driver/initiative
• Continuously improve accuracy and reduce error below target thresholds for WMAPE and Bias.
  
  

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

• Education –
• Bachelor’s degree required (economics, supply chain, engineering, finance, analytics, or related).
• Experience –
• At least 1-3 years required in Demand Planning, Marketing, Sales, Category Management or Supply Chain Planning and Analytics.