Manager - Demand Planning

Job description

Designation: Demand Planning Manager Location: Ahmedabad Key Responsibilities - 1. Demand Forecasting & Planning • Develop SKU-level demand forecasts using statistical models, historical data, and market inputs. • Incorporate sales trends, seasonality, promotions, and new product launches. • Continuously improve forecast accuracy and reduce bias. 2. FSNE (Fast, Slow, Non-Moving, Excess) Management • Monitor and classify inventory across FSNE buckets. • Drive actions to reduce slow-moving and excess inventory. • Collaborate with Sales & Marketing to liquidate non-moving stock. • Work with supply planning to prevent overstocking and obsolescence. 3. S&OP Process Management • Own demand inputs into the monthly S&OP cycle. • Align cross-functional stakeholders on demand plans. • Highlight risks, opportunities, and demand assumptions. • Ensure demand plans are aligned with financial and supply plans. 4. Data Analysis & Insights • Track forecast accuracy (MAPE, bias) and identify root causes. • Analyze category trends, consumer behavior, and channel performance. • Provide actionable insights for business decision-making. 5. Stakeholder Collaboration • Partner with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Supply Planning teams. • Integrate GT, MT, and D2C demand drivers into planning. • Support business teams with demand-related insights and reports. 6. Inventory & Service Level Optimization • Ensure high service levels while controlling inventory costs. • Reduce stockouts and avoid excess inventory situations. • Monitor inventory health metrics and recommend corrective actions. 7. New Product Planning (NPD) • Create initial forecasts for new launches in personal care categories. • Track performance vs plan and refine assumptions post-launch. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) • Forecast Accuracy (MAPE & Bias) • FSNE Inventory Reduction (especially Slow/Non-Moving/Excess) • Service Levels / Fill Rate • Inventory Turns & DOI • Demand Plan Adherence Qualifications & Experience Education • MBA in Operations / Supply Chain (Preferred) • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field Experience • 3-6 years of experience in Demand Planning / Supply Chain • Mandatory: Experience in FMCG (Personal Care preferred) • Experience handling large SKU portfolios and multiple channels (GT/MT/E com/D2C) Technical Skills • Advanced Excel and data analytics skills • Experience with planning tools (SAP APO/IBP, Anaplan, Oracle, Kinaxis, etc.) • Knowledge of forecasting models and inventory planning • Power BI / Tableau (preferred)