Senior Manager Global Demand Planning (m/f/d)

We are the world market leader for reusable packaging containers (RPCs) for fresh food and are constantly optimizing our products.

We help make the food supply cycle for the population more sustainable. With our RPCs, safety for food transport is improved, there is less waste of food and at the same time the lifespan of the products increases. Through our products and the need for less packaging materials we reduce the carbon footprint.

„The future is circular“

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and Maintain Demand Forecasts: Create precise short-, medium-, and long-term demand forecasts for crate rentals by analysing historical data, market trends, and seasonal patterns. 
• Enhance Forecast Accuracy: Continuously evaluate forecast performance, identify gaps between forecasts and actual demand, and implement improvements for greater accuracy. 
• Drive Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with sales, finance, operations, recollections planning, and supply planning teams at both global and regional levels to align forecasts with business objectives and supply chain capabilities. 
• Incorporate Customer Insights: Work closely with sales and account managers to gather feedback from growers and retail customers to refine and improve demand forecasts. 
• Leverage Data and Analytics: Apply statistical models, historical data analysis, and advanced analytics tools to elevate forecasting processes and decision-making. 
• Optimize Planning Systems: Utilize demand planning software (e.g., SAP IBP) to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of demand planning operations. 
• Manage Seasonal Demand Fluctuations: Account for seasonal and regional variations (e.g., growing and harvesting cycles) to ensure accurate planning and resource allocation. 
• Monitor and Improve Key Metrics: Track critical demand planning KPIs, such as forecast accuracy, bias, and inventory turnover, while driving global improvement initiatives. 
• Provide Strategic Reporting: Deliver actionable insights and detailed reports to leadership on demand trends, risks, and growth opportunities. 

We expect:

• Educational Background: Master’s degree (MSc) in Supply Chain Management, Finance, Economics, Analytics, or Statistics. 
• Expertise in Supply Chain Planning: In-depth knowledge of supply chain processes, with a strong focus on rentals planning, including demand forecasting, supply planning, and distribution. 
• Advanced Analytical Skills: Proficiency in statistical modelling, trend analysis, forecasting techniques (e.g., time-series analysis, regression), predictive analytics, and scenario planning. 
• Customer Behaviour Insights: Strong understanding of customer behaviours, particularly how growers and retailers influence demand patterns. 
• Market-Specific Knowledge: Familiarity with growers' operational needs and challenges, including variations in demand driven by regional and market-specific factors. 
• Reverse Logistics Proficiency: Expertise in reverse logistics, including asset retrieval and redistribution, with skills in supply and demand planning, inventory management, and optimizing asset utilization. 
• Language skills: Fluent in English; proficiency in additional languages is a plus.

We offer:

• An area of ​​responsibility with the opportunity to contribute within a sustainable and crisis-proof industry.
• Appreciative and respectful interactions within an international team (attested by our employees).
• Flat hierarchies and short decision paths.
• Continued flexible working models even after Corona: hybrid work and workation.
• Online canteen from Bella & Bona with weekly changing selection (subsidized by IFCO).
• Extensive training opportunities with unlimited LinkedIn Learning.
• Employee Support Program.
• Modern offices and good accessibility via public transport (train station right in front of the door).
• Technical equipment for mobile work options.
• Complimentary beverages and on-site fitness center.
• Parking in the underground car park.

At IFCO, we believe that a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace makes us a more relevant, more competitive, and more resilient company. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and experiences. IFCO is an equal oppor