Demand Planning Manager

BAT; Auckland; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Health plans

Career progression

Job summary

British American Tobacco (BAT) in Auckland, NZ is seeking a Demand Planning Manager to lead the forecasting process and inventory strategy for New Categories & Combustibles. You will oversee a small team, partner with sales, finance and supply chain, and drive data-driven forecasting improvements.

The role requires 8–10 years in an analyst-type capacity, advanced Excel, Power BI and experience with planning tools.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years’ experience in an analyst-type role with strong analytical skills.
• Advanced Excel, Power Query and Power BI.
• Strong commercial acumen and decision-making ability.

Responsibilities

• Forecast the demand plan for the business using historical data and market insights.
• Monitor and manage inventory to meet demand while minimizing excess stock.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration with sales, finance, operations and supply chain.
• Analyze data and generate reports on forecast accuracy, demand uploads and inventory levels.
• Drive process improvements and oversee demand planning tools and systems.
• Provide leadership and develop the team to deliver on objectives.

Skills

Advanced Excel

Power BI

Power Query

Tools

SAP

BPC

APO

Kinaxis

Job description

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World. To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together.

British American Tobacco has an exciting opportunity for a Demand Planning Manager in Auckland, New Zealand

The Demand Planning Manager is responsible for overseeing the demand planning process, ensuring accurate forecasting, and maintaining optimal inventory levels to meet customer demand for New Categories & Combustibles. This role has 2 direct reports based in shared services located in another country. The role will also require collaboration with the broader organization to gather, collate and implement essential data and insights in the demand forecast. The Demand Planning Manager plays a critical role in the strategic planning of the company, contributing to the efficiency of the supply chain and the overall financial health of the organization.

Your Key Responsibilities Will Include

Business Objective

Forecasting Demand

• Own and manage BAT demand forecast based on historical data, market trends and the company strategic intent on a fortnight consensus with the sales team
• Use statistical forecasting methods and tools to pressure test predicted demand and ensure accuracy and relevance.

Inventory management

• In conjunction with supply chain, monitor and manage inventory levels to meet customer demand whilst minimizing excess and obsolete stock
• Coordinate with supply chain and procurement teams to ensure timely replenishment of inventory.

Collaboration and communication

• Facilitate and participate in cross-functional meetings to review and align on forecast assumptions and changes to be implemented in the demand forecast
• Work closely with brands, category management, sales, finance, and supply chain teams to gather information and insights for demand upload.
• Lead and own IBPM agenda to further EM agenda and focus on quality growth, active risk mitigation and identification of hots spots to drive

Data analysis and reporting

• Analyse sales data, market trends, and other relevant information to pressure test demand forecasts.
• Prepare regular reports on demand upload changes, forecast accuracy, inventory levels, and other important metrics to share with other business collaborators.
• Identify and report on demand planning issues and propose prompt solutions.
• Data driven approach, evolve how we operate to capture granular and accurate input into forecast

Process Improvement & System management

• Continuously oversee the improvement of demand planning processes and tools to enhance forecast accuracy and efficiency.
• Oversee the use and maintenance of demand planning software and tools
• Ensure data integrity within the planning systems.

Leadership Objectives

• Drive for results by mobilising resources effectively to achieve company objectives.
• Consistent provision of feedback and team progress towards targets.
• Taking ownership of own personal development, including timely and accurate reporting of performance review, development plan and career plan documents.
• Develop and maintain excellent working relationships, building networks and sharing resources/information across teams within BATNZ and above market.
• Build effective partnerships (internally and externally) to support delivery of core activities and to ensure strategic requirements are delivered.

What are we looking for?

• Preferably FMCG experience and in a function which play a front office role in the business
• Proven experience to drive a highly capable team
• At least 8 to 10 years’ experience in an analyst type role to ensure solid analytic skills and attention to detail
• Demonstrates strong commercial acumen by viewing situations and making decisions from a business perspective.
• Advanced Excel, Power Query, Power BI
• SAP, BPC, APO and Kinaxis knowledge desired
• Structured approach to work with high levels of accuracy

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
• Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we’re eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
• You’ll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?

We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions. Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals. We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture). Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.