Demand Planner - Forecasting and Supply Chain

Ferguson Enterprises - Charlotte, NC

Full-time - Mid Level

Charlotte, NC

Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods

About the position

The Demand Planner - Forecasting and Supply Chain at Amerock plays a crucial role in leading a subset of the company's demand forecast. This position utilizes data-driven statistical software combined with insights from various inputs, including financial plans, market plans, sales plans, and industry information, to develop a consensus forecast. The Demand Planner must possess the tact to challenge assumptions from other functions, leveraging a strong understanding of data, forecast error, and the drivers that minimize bias in forecasting. This hybrid role is based out of Huntersville, NC, allowing for a flexible work schedule of three days in the office and two days remote. In this role, the Demand Planner will follow a monthly cadence to analyze and collaborate with cross-functional departments to adjust the demand forecast, ensuring alignment with the overall national demand plan. Participation in the monthly Demand Consensus meeting is essential, where the planner will report on forecast changes and collaborate with participants to challenge any discrepancies in the forecast. The planner will also finalize and release Planned Orders suggested by the ERP system, ensuring that distribution centers are adequately supplied to meet demand. The Demand Planner will analyze customer portals, dashboards, and scorecards to monitor performance against service level agreements (SLA) and will work closely with the Supply Manager and distribution centers on operational requests. Monthly reporting on forecast accuracy and bias will be a key responsibility, along with mentoring the organization on the importance of demand planning and S&OP processes. The role requires sharpening forecast accuracy through analysis of forecast errors and implementing action plans based on insights derived from these metrics. Collaboration with suppliers to manage delivery timelines and ensure optimal inventory flow is also critical to reduce risks and lead times on key items. Additionally, the Demand Planner will lead projects focused on data-driven supply chain optimization and planning system improvements.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and collaborate with cross-functional departments to adjust the demand forecast and reach consensus.
• Ensure ongoing supply at distribution centers to meet the national demand plan.
• Attend monthly Demand Consensus meetings to report on forecast changes and collaborate with participants.
• Finalize and release Planned Orders suggested by the ERP system and adjust order quantities as needed.
• Analyze Customer Portals, Dashboards, and Scorecards to ensure performance to SLA and liaise with Supply Manager and DC on operational requests.
• Run monthly reporting on forecast accuracy and forecast bias.
• Serve as a mentor and advocate for prioritizing demand planning and S&OP processes.
• Analyze forecast error and recommend action plans to adjust demand forecasts based on insights.
• Collaborate with suppliers to manage delivery timelines for accurate cash flow forecasting.
• Ensure optimal inventory flow to reduce risk and decrease lead times on key items.
• Lead projects related to data-driven supply chain optimization and planning system improvements.

Requirements

• 7+ years of Demand/Supply planning experience with a proven understanding of Supply Chain concepts.
• Prior S&OP, SIOP experience, or related supply chain planning process preferred.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Supply Chain, Business, or related analytical subject preferred.
• Experience leading collaborative demand meetings and participating in a consensus process.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to scrutinize and break down facts in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong presentation skills and ability to build positive relationships across the organization.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Excel, including V-Lookups, IF Functions, and Pivot tables; advanced knowledge preferred.
• Experience using SAP and Demand Forecasting Software (Forecast Pro) preferred.
• SQL database skills a plus; PowerBI proficiency preferred.
• APICS Supply Chain Certification preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with advanced statistical forecasting methods.
• Knowledge of inventory management best practices.
• Familiarity with financial planning processes.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Retirement savings with company match
• Paid leave (vacation, sick, personal, holiday, and parental)
• Employee assistance programs
• Associate discounts
• Community involvement opportunities
• Bonus or Incentive Plan eligibility