Demand Planning Specialist

Roles and responsibilities

• Responsible for ensuring we have the correct inventory at the stores (No OOS or OVS) by analysing the current inventory status and updating the ordering parameters. Daily monitoring of stock movement, running report of daily inventory adjustment.
• Maintaining parameters of the replenishment model and making sure it is accurately input into the We’re hiring Specialist Demand Planning system, including lead times, reorder point, economic order quantities, suppliers minimum order quantities, etc.
• Preparing demand forecasts and initiating ordering to the stores and tracking receipt of such orders
• Managing the relevant inventory in coordination with the Category Managers
• Ensuring timely and accurate analysis and reporting of inventory and purchase forecasts
• Dispatching orders to suppliers and ensuring proper tracking
• Liaising with suppliers for improving collaborative forecasting planning and replenishment
• Ensuring maintenance of appropriate and accurate records of in-stock and inventory position are kept.
  

What Did We Order?

• You have at least 5+ years of experience in Inventory Controlling
• You are very detail-oriented, structured and know how to prioritize -- you consider yourself as someone who delivers solutions and not bottlenecks to be solved.
• You are able to interact with senior-level executives and can manage the expectations of multiple stakeholders.
• You are someone energized by the unknown and look forward to learning each day on the job.
• You have excellent analytical and communication skills, and always like to be hands-on with several tools.
• Additionally, you have robust interpersonal and intercultural skills. You can inspire several teams and stakeholders to rally behind a mission.
• Language skills: Fluent English and Arabic would be highly advantageous

Desired candidate profile

1. Demand Forecasting and Statistical Analysis

• Strong understanding of forecasting techniques, including time series analysis, regression models, and other quantitative methods.
• Ability to analyze historical sales data, market trends, and seasonality to develop accurate demand forecasts.
• Proficiency in using statistical software (e.g., R, Python, SAS) and demand forecasting tools.

2. Supply Chain Knowledge

• Knowledge of supply chain processes, including inventory management, procurement, production, and distribution.
• Understanding of the relationship between demand forecasts and supply chain operations, and how to align these elements for efficiency.

3. Data Analysis and Reporting

• Proficiency in data analysis tools like Excel, Power BI, or Tableau to analyze large datasets and present insights.
• Ability to create and interpret demand planning reports, presenting findings to key stakeholders.
• Analyzing discrepancies between forecasted and actual demand and adjusting forecasts accordingly.

4. ERP and Planning Software

• Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, and NetSuite.
• Familiarity with specialized demand planning software such as Kinaxis RapidResponse, RELEX, or Blue Yonder.

5. Collaboration and Communication

• Strong communication skills to work with cross-functional teams, including sales, marketing, production, and logistics, to ensure alignment on demand forecasts.
• Ability to present complex data insights to non-technical stakeholders clearly and concisely.
• Collaborating with other departments to gather inputs and adjust forecasts based on external factors like promotions, market shifts, and supplier lead times.

6. Inventory Management

• Knowledge of inventory management techniques, including Just-In-Time (JIT), Economic Order Quantity (EOQ), and Safety Stock.
• Ability to balance supply and demand while minimizing stockouts and overstock situations.

7. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

• Identifying issues in the demand planning process and implementing effective solutions.
• Ability to adjust plans and strategies based on real-time data and changing business conditions.

8. Attention to Detail

• A keen eye for accuracy when working with data and forecasts, ensuring that assumptions are realistic and calculations are correct.
• Monitoring and validating forecast data to maintain its quality and relevance over time.