Merchandise Demand Planner (Temporary Assignment)

Universal Orlando•Orlando, FL

About The Position

This role is responsible for maintaining the balance between the supply and demand forecasts for assigned categories by managing time phased order plans for new and existing products that support service strategies. Provides partnership with internal and external partners in support of our inventory and allocation strategies while delivering cost efficiencies across the supply chain. Provides focus on exit strategies to ensure timely transition to new products.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Statistics or a related field is required; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of this requirement
4+ years' experience in inventory management, supply chain planning or a closely related field within a dynamic business environment.
Strong negotiating skills in a dynamic environment and with a diverse supplier base.
Strong analytical skills with an ability to interpret complex datasets and translate them into actionable business strategies.
Ability to communicate effectively with other departments.
Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and SQL.
In-depth understanding of key supply chain concepts including inventory management, order fulfillment, and distribution planning.
Strong problem-solving abilities.
Consistent attendance is a job requirement.

Nice To Haves

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Responsibilities

Manage and optimize time-phased purchase order plans based on the forecasted demand for new and existing products to ensure availability of product in support of service level strategies and minimizes excess inventory.
Generates and approves purchase orders based on negotiated parameters such as minimum order quantities, tiered pricing, lead times and shipping.
Synchronize placement of purchases for domestic and international parks for commonly sourced products to maximize cost savings and mange supplier constraints.
Negotiate volume discounts when reorders are placed as well as discounts on past due orders; dating on early shipments; and freight costs on orders that are at risk of being late.
Manage expedited purchase and deliveries of product in response to the needs of the business outside the normal timelines and processes.
Provide projections over time to facilitate the leveraged sourcing of raw material components by the vendors to realize cost savings and increased gross margin.
Negotiate volume discounts where opportunities exist beyond initial agreements.
Partner with sourcing when constraints related to production capacity arise with a supplier.
Collaborate with Sourcing, Logistics, Merchandise Product Development, Area Merchandise Operations, Demand Planning & Distribution Services teams to align supply plans with market demands and operational capabilities.
Partner with suppliers to understand capacity and constraints to develop contingency plans.
Regularly review performance indicators related to inventory health such as service levels, backorder rates, and turnover ratios; propose corrective actions when necessary.
Partners with the Manager of Pricing and promotions on the exit strategies of products and programs.
Assist in formulating inventory strategies that support business objectives and warehouse capacity constraints.
Partner with vendors and Accounts Payable teams to ensure payments are processed in accordance with negotiated payment terms and methods and troubleshoot and resolve any issues.
Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.