Manager - Demand Planning

Designation: Demand Planning Manager

Location: Ahmedabad

Key Responsibilities -

1. Demand Forecasting & Planning

• Develop SKU-level demand forecasts using statistical models, historical data, and market inputs.
• Incorporate sales trends, seasonality, promotions, and new product launches.
• Continuously improve forecast accuracy and reduce bias.

2. FSNE (Fast, Slow, Non-Moving, Excess) Management

• Monitor and classify inventory across FSNE buckets.
• Drive actions to reduce slow-moving and excess inventory.
• Collaborate with Sales & Marketing to liquidate non-moving stock.
• Work with supply planning to prevent overstocking and obsolescence.

3. S&OP Process Management

• Own demand inputs into the monthly S&OP cycle.
• Align cross-functional stakeholders on demand plans.
• Highlight risks, opportunities, and demand assumptions.
• Ensure demand plans are aligned with financial and supply plans.

4. Data Analysis & Insights

• Track forecast accuracy (MAPE, bias) and identify root causes.
• Analyze category trends, consumer behavior, and channel performance.
• Provide actionable insights for business decision-making.

5. Stakeholder Collaboration

• Partner with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Supply Planning teams.
• Integrate GT, MT, and D2C demand drivers into planning.
• Support business teams with demand-related insights and reports.

6. Inventory & Service Level Optimization

• Ensure high service levels while controlling inventory costs.
• Reduce stockouts and avoid excess inventory situations.
• Monitor inventory health metrics and recommend corrective actions.

7. New Product Planning (NPD)

• Create initial forecasts for new launches in personal care categories.
• Track performance vs plan and refine assumptions post-launch.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Forecast Accuracy (MAPE & Bias)
• FSNE Inventory Reduction (especially Slow/Non-Moving/Excess)
• Service Levels / Fill Rate
• Inventory Turns & DOI
• Demand Plan Adherence

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• MBA in Operations / Supply Chain (Preferred)
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field

Experience

• 3-6 years of experience in Demand Planning / Supply Chain
• Mandatory: Experience in FMCG (Personal Care preferred)
• Experience handling large SKU portfolios and multiple channels (GT/MT/E com/D2C)

Technical Skills

• Advanced Excel and data analytics skills
• Experience with planning tools (SAP APO/IBP, Anaplan, Oracle, Kinaxis, etc.)
• Knowledge of forecasting models and inventory planning
• Power BI / Tableau (preferred)