Demand & Supply Planning Specialist

Job description

Work Schedule Standard (Mon-Fri) Environmental Conditions Office Job Description The Demand & Supply Planning Specialist is responsible for developing and executing demand and supply planning strategies to ensure optimal product availability while balancing inventory investment and business objectives. This role serves as the key interface between Commercial, Global Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Distribution Centers, and regional stakeholders to drive planning excellence, mitigate supply risks, and support sustainable business growth. The position plays a critical role in Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP), inventory optimization, continuous improvement initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver an outstanding customer experience. Key Responsibilities Lead demand and supply planning activities to ensure product availability while optimizing inventory levels and working capital. Collaborate closely with Commercial, Marketing, Manufacturing, Global Supply Planning, Distribution Centers and 3rd party vendors to align demand forecasts with supply capabilities. Analyze historical demand, market trends, customer buying patterns, and business opportunities to improve forecast accuracy and planning effectiveness. Drive inventory optimization by balancing customer service levels, inventory health, and financial targets. Monitor and manage key Supply Chain KPIs, including Working Capital, DOS, LIFR, OTTP, Slow-moving Inventory, Excess & Obsolete (E&O), and Backorders. Identify supply constraints, assess business impact, and develop proactive mitigation and recovery plans with global planning teams. Support and lead the monthly S&OP process by providing demand insights, inventory analysis, capacity considerations, and supply risk assessments. Review and optimize planning parameters, replenishment strategies, safety stock, and stocking policies to improve supply chain performance. Coordinate inventory rebalancing, intercompany stock transfers, and allocation strategies to maximize product availability across the region. Support New Product Introduction (NPI), product lifecycle management, and product phase-in/phase-out planning activities. Partner with Global Supply Chain and Manufacturing to resolve supply issues and improve end-to-end planning visibility. Utilize ERP, planning systems, and analytical tools to develop reports, dashboards, and business insights that support strategic decision-making. Lead continuous improvement initiatives through Lean methodologies, automation, digitalization, and process optimization (including RPA and system enhancements where applicable). Participate in cross-functional and global projects to standardize planning processes and implement best practices across regions. Ensure compliance with corporate policies, planning governance, and operational standards. Qualification 10+ years of significant experience in Demand Planning, Supply Planning, Inventory Management, or Supply Chain Operations. Strong understanding of S&OP, inventory optimization, and supply planning processes. Experience with ERP systems (Oracle JD Edwards, SAP, Oracle, or equivalent) Advanced analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and reporting/BI tools (Power BI or similar preferred). Experience working within a global matrix organization. Strong communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Experience leading cross-functional projects and driving process improvements. Fluent English communication skills (both written and spoken)