Demand Planning Assistant Manager

Savola Group; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading FMCG company in the United Arab Emirates seeks a professional for demand forecasting and analysis. Responsibilities include developing data-driven forecasts, leading the S&OP process, and mentoring a planning team. Strong skills in statistical modeling and inventory management are essential. This role provides an opportunity to impact supply plans directly and enhance team capabilities in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in demand forecasting and analysis with a focus on SKU and category levels.
• Strong analytical skills to measure and improve forecast accuracy metrics.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and facilitating meetings.

Responsibilities

• Develop data-driven demand forecasts using statistical models and historical data.
• Lead demand planning in the S&OP process and facilitate monthly reviews.
• Ensure demand plans are supported by effective supply plans through collaboration.

Skills

Statistical modeling

Forecast accuracy analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Inventory management

Team leadership

Tools

ERP systems

Data visualization tools

Job description

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 (S&OP)

• 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 process.