Demand Planning Assistant Manager

Role Overview

Demand Planning Assistant Manager at Savola. This role leads demand forecasting, sales and operations planning, and inventory alignment to drive accurate demand signals across the organization.

Role Purpose

To develop accurate, data-driven demand forecasts at multiple levels and lead the demand planning portion of the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process, ensuring alignment between demand and supply plans while mentoring a planning team.

Key Responsibilities

Demand Forecasting & Analysis

• Develop accurate, data-driven demand forecasts at multiple levels (SKU, category, region, and customer) using statistical models, historical data, and market trends.
• Analyze forecast accuracy metrics (e.g., MAPE, Bias) and drive continuous improvements.
• Incorporate market intelligence, promotional calendars, sales inputs, and customer data into the forecasting process.

Sales & Operations Planning

• Lead the demand planning portion of the S&OP process.
• Facilitate monthly demand review meetings with cross-functional stakeholders (Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Supply Chain).
• Build consensus on forecast numbers and align demand and supply plans.

Inventory and Supply Alignment

• Work closely with supply planning, procurement, and operations teams to ensure that demand plans translate into effective supply plans.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate actions to avoid stockouts, overstock, and obsolete inventory.

Product Lifecycle Management

• Manage planning for new product launches, transitions, and end-of-life (EOL) items.
• Develop ramp-up and ramp-down strategies to minimize inventory risk while ensuring availability.

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of planning professionals to ensure high performance and development.
• Foster a collaborative environment to facilitate cross-functional teamwork.
• Conduct regular training sessions to enhance team skills and knowledge.

Data Management & Systems

• Maintain master data relevant to planning (e.g., lead times, lot sizes, forecast models).
• Generate dashboards and reports for performance tracking and decision-making.
• Utilize ERP and planning systems to automate demand planning processes.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree.
• 5–8 years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or supply chain management.

Skills & Competencies

• Forecasting and statistical techniques for large numbers of SKUs and divisions.
• Supply Chain and Inventory Management.
• Demand Planning Systems and Tools.
• Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP).
• Data Analysis and Interpretation.
• Detail-oriented and data-driven personality with ability to work in fast-paced environments.
• Highly analytical with drive for innovation and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work closely with multiple stakeholders across sales, product supply, and other departmental functions.
• English language proficiency.