Demand Planner

AFL Telecommunications•Duncan, SC

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Demand Planner supports and leads demand planning within the S&OP framework, coordinating and executing the monthly Demand Review to reach agreement on the latest 24-month rolling forecast. The role approves demand forecasts before they are presented to senior management or incorporated into S&OP and recommends a final decision when consensus cannot be reached. The position oversees statistical forecasting models across product lines, maintains the demand funnel and Salesforce data accuracy, collaborates with Global Planning, sales, marketing, and other functions, and monitors forecast accuracy, bias, and demand-related risks. It also drives continuous improvement in planning processes and systems and mentors Demand Analysts. The work takes place in a normal office and manufacturing facility environment. Some travel may be required, but is not frequent (less than 15%).

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Statistics, Engineering, or a related field.
At least 5–7 years of experience in demand planning or related roles within manufacturing organizations, including at least 5 years in a manufacturing or supply chain role.
Demonstrated experience building and leading a high-performance demand team and developing team members.
Strong track record of improving forecast accuracy and inventory performance.
Experience with leading demand planning software, such as SAP APO, Oracle Demantra, or JDA.
Proficiency in Salesforce CRM and its integration with demand planning processes.
Advanced proficiency in statistical forecasting techniques and software, such as SAS, R, or Python.
Strong understanding of supply chain management principles and S&OP processes.
Expertise in inventory management and optimization techniques.
Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools, such as Tableau or Power BI.
Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables, macros, and VBA.
Knowledge of ERP systems and their integration with demand planning tools.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and presentation skills.
Leadership, team management, mentoring, and cross-functional influencing skills.
Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and maintain attention to detail and accuracy.
Adaptability, willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment, and strategic thinking.

Nice To Haves

MBA.
Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or another relevant professional certification, such as APICS.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage demand planning within the S&OP framework, including coordinating and executing the monthly Demand Review to gain agreement on the latest 24-month rolling forecast; recommend a final decision if consensus cannot be reached.
Oversee the development and maintenance of statistical forecasting models for all product lines in dollars and units, supporting Latest Estimates, Operating Plans, and financial projections.
Collaborate with the Customer Operations Analyst to maintain the demand funnel and ensure data accuracy in Salesforce.
Work with Global Planning to communicate forecasts, commercial drivers, and risks, and resolve questions about forecast data.
Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to incorporate promotional activities and market intelligence into demand forecasts.
Analyze market trends, seasonality, and historical data to identify patterns and improve forecast accuracy.
Manage consensus demand planning, facilitate meetings, and resolve conflicts between functional areas.
Monitor forecast accuracy and bias and implement corrective actions as needed.
Provide regular reporting on key demand planning metrics to senior management.
Identify and manage risks related to demand volatility.
Drive continuous improvement in demand planning processes and systems.
Mentor and develop Demand Analysts, supporting their growth and performance.
Approve demand forecasts before presentation to senior management or incorporation into the S&OP process.
Implement changes to the demand planning process within the team.
Recommend demand planning technologies or tools for approval by the VP Supply Chain.
Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including deciding which meetings to attend and how to present demand planning insights.