Supply and Demand Planning Manager

Job Title: Supply and Demand Planning Manager
Department: Supply Chain 
Reports to: Planning Head

Job Overview:

The Supply and Demand Planning Manager is responsible for overseeing the forecasting, planning, and management of supply and demand processes within a home appliances manufacturing and retail company. This role ensures that the company’s products are produced and distributed efficiently, in alignment with customer demand while minimizing excess inventory and stockouts. The position requires strong coordination between various departments, suppliers, and retailers to maintain an optimal balance between supply and demand.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Demand Forecasting and Planning:

• Develop and maintain accurate demand forecasts for all product categories, using historical data, market trends, and input from sales, marketing, and customer feedback.
• Use forecasting models and data analysis tools to predict demand for products at different retail locations and through online platforms.
• Work closely with sales and marketing teams to understand promotional plans, new product launches, and market dynamics that could affect demand.
• Adjust forecasts as needed to reflect changes in market conditions, customer behavior, or promotional activities.

2. Supply Planning:

• Develop and implement supply plans to ensure products are available for manufacturing and retail distribution on time and at the right quantities.
• Coordinate with procurement, production, and logistics teams to align on inventory levels, production schedules, and lead times.
• Optimize inventory levels across warehouses and retail locations to ensure product availability while minimizing excess stock and storage costs.
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to align production schedules with forecasted demand.

3. Inventory Management:

• Monitor inventory levels across all warehouses and retail locations to ensure optimal stock levels are maintained.
• Implement strategies to reduce stockouts and overstocks by adjusting replenishment schedules and safety stock levels.
• Work with suppliers and vendors to ensure timely and cost-effective deliveries of raw materials and finished goods.
• Conduct regular inventory audits and ensure accuracy of stock records.

4. Collaboration and Cross-Functional Coordination:

• Act as a liaison between sales, marketing, finance, and operations teams to align on demand projections and supply capabilities.
• Provide visibility to key stakeholders on supply and demand planning activities, including potential risks, shortages, and disruptions.
• Collaborate with retail partners to understand demand patterns, sales trends, and distribution requirements.
• Work with the logistics team to optimize transportation and distribution processes to meet delivery schedules.

5. Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), such as forecast accuracy, inventory turnover, stockouts, and order fill rates.
• Prepare regular reports for senior management, highlighting key trends, potential risks, and areas for improvement.
• Use data-driven insights to recommend process improvements or changes to the supply and demand planning strategy.

6. Continuous Improvement:

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to optimize supply and demand planning processes, using lean principles or other best practices.
• Identify opportunities for system enhancements or process automation to increase efficiency and accuracy in forecasting, inventory management, and planning.
• Stay up to date with industry trends, new technologies, and tools that could improve the supply and demand planning process.

7. Supplier and Vendor Management:

• Manage relationships with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure timely production and delivery of raw materials and finished products.
• Address any supply chain disruptions, delays, or quality issues promptly and work to develop contingency plans when needed.
• Negotiate lead times, pricing, and delivery schedules with suppliers to ensure competitive advantages and cost efficiency.

Work Environment:

• Office-based.
• Collaborative work environment with frequent cross-functional interactions.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Professional development opportunities and career growth within the company.
• Collaborative, dynamic, and innovative work culture.

The Supply and Demand Planning Manager will play a key role in driving the company’s supply chain efficiency, ensuring products are delivered to the right place at the right time while meeting customer demand and minimizing costs.