Manager, Demand Planning (Project Hire)

Universal Orlando•Orlando, FL

12h

About The Position

The Manager, Merchandise Demand Planning, is a key leadership role responsible for driving both accurate demand forecasts and robust merchandise financial plans that optimize product availability, inventory turns and financial performance. This leader directs a team of demand planners to generate actionable business insights and implement planning processes that drive product availability and business growth. The role partners cross-functionally with Product Development, Supply Planning, Strategic Planning, Rev Ops, and other key stakeholders to synchronize demand and financial plans with commercial strategies and operational capabilities. With a strong analytical mindset and collaborative leadership style, the Manager, Demand Planning plays a pivotal role in achieving Universal’s service level, revenue, and profitability goals.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is required; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of this requirement.
7+ years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, and inventory management with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
Strong statistical analysis skills with proficiency in forecast modeling techniques and use of demand planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle Demantra, JDA Demand).
Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and SQL.
Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with stakeholders across various functions such as merchandise product development, area merchandise operations, and brand managers.
Demonstrated ability to lead projects involving multiple teams by providing direction and achieving consensus among diverse groups.
Proactive problem-solving abilities coupled with strong organizational skills to manage complex datasets.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Consistent attendance is a job requirement.

Responsibilities

Lead the preparation, validation, and submission of category forecasts and merchandise financial plans.
Oversee forecast updates and financial plans for new product introductions, seasonal launches, discounts, and key promotions.
Ensure timely monthly maintenance of forecasts and financial plans; schedule and lead forecast/budget review meetings.
Maintain and improve planning processes to enhance forecast and budget accuracy.
Monitor and analyze forecast accuracy, inventory levels, open-to-buy, consensus meetings and sales/margin performance.
Produce and communicate regular reports on forecasts, buying plans, budget status, and performance to senior management.
Support the annual budget process and periodic reforecasts, identifying financial and demand risk/opportunity.
Directly manage demand planners within assigned categories or channels.
Coach, delegate workload, and strengthen planner skillsets for improved forecast accuracy and growth.
Assist in employee recruitment, performance evaluation, promotion, and retention activities.
Maintain training materials and organize training for team member.
Address short-term and routine operational concerns, forecast variances, and business plan adjustments.
Liaise with Merchandising, Supply, and Finance to adjust plans and support business priorities.
Serve as the primary contact for cross-functional partners regarding forecasts, budgets, promotional calendars, and category strategy.
Escalate significant risks, gaps, or business opportunities to leadership as needed.
Understands and actively participates in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
Performs other duties as assigned.