Manager, Demand Planning

Role Summary

This is an Onsite/Hybrid position based at our main office location in Gastonia, NC. The position requires one to be onsite 4 days per week.

The Manager, Demand Planning is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the supply chain planning processes to ensure the efficient and cost-effective availability of products. This role requires strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and the use of analytical tools to manage inventory, production schedules, and supply chain performance.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Demand Forecasting:
● Develop, maintain, and refine demand forecasts using historical sales data, market trends, and statistical models
● Collaborate with sales, marketing, and product teams to incorporate promotional plans, market insights, and new product launches into forecasts

Inventory Management:
● Ensure optimal inventory levels by balancing supply and demand to minimize stockouts and overstock situations
● Monitor key inventory metrics and take corrective actions as needed

Cross-functional Collaboration:
● Partner with supply chain, production, and logistics teams to ensure seamless demand and supply alignment
● Communicate forecast adjustments and market insights to stakeholders to facilitate proactive decision-making

Analytics and Reporting:
● Analyze historical data and market dynamics to improve forecasting accuracy and demand planning processes
● Prepare and present regular demand planning reports, KPIs, and insights to senior management

Process Improvement:
● Lead initiatives to enhance demand planning tools, systems, and methodologies
● Identify inefficiencies in the demand planning process and implement solutions to improve performance

Risk Management:
● Identify potential demand risks and develop contingency plans to mitigate disruptions
● Respond to unforeseen market changes and adjust plans accordingly

Team Leadership:
● Lead and mentor a team of demand planners to achieve organizational objectives
● Provide training and guidance to ensure the team stays updated on best practices and industry standards

REQUIREMENTS

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering or a related field

Experience:

• 5 -7 years' minimum experience in supply/demand planning and forecasting
• 2 - 3 years minimum team leadership experience in a manufacturing/industrial/distribution environment with direct reports and team management responsibility

Required Skills:

• Material Planning and Logistics process knowledge
• Knowledgeable with demand planning tools such as SAP APO, GAINS, KINAXIS, etc. 
• MS Office skills
• Inventory Management and Optimization

Preferred (but not required):

• Master's degree
• Automotive industry experience
• Lean and Six Sigma principles
• Project Management experience
• Supply Planning skills