Demand Planning Analyst: Forecast & Inventory Optimizer

Blain's Farm & Fleet (Blain Supply, Inc.); Janesville (WI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision

Short & Long Term Disability

Life Insurance

401(K) with company match

Associate discount

Paid holidays & birthdays off

Advanced Leadership Training

Job summary

Blain’s Farm & Fleet in Wisconsin is seeking a demand planning specialist to forecast demand, manage inventory flow, and support in-stock goals across stores. You will generate POs, monitor stock levels, and collaborate with vendors and store teams to reduce stock-outs.

The role emphasizes data-driven forecasting, collaboration with merchandising, and occasional travel up to 10% to support promotions and Grand Opening events.

Qualifications

• Proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office software.
• 3-5 years of experience in retail, supply chain, or related experience.
• Knowledge of inventory metrics.
• Understanding of ladder planning principles and the application of it to support accurate forecasting.
• Strong math skills with ability to analyze statistics.
• Effective verbal and written communications skills.
• Strong problem solving and follow up skills.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills for establishing and maintaining strong relationships with vendors, store teams and management.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for short- and long-term demand planning and forecasting.
• Ensure promotional quantities are sufficient to support advertised demand.
• Ensure efficient inventory flow to stores to maximize service levels and corporate performance goals.
• Utilize replenishment system to order products from vendors and warehouse.
• Generate POs for inventory fulfillment that support the in-stock strategy for key merchandise categories, items, and vendors.
• Communicate with stores regarding stock issues and customer requests including rain checks and special orders.
• Review vendor performance to identify opportunities to improve lead times, fill rates, and prevent stock-outs.
• Collaborate with Manager to monitor and adjust the demand plan using exception reporting.
• Create demand forecasts based on sales history, market trends, sell-through, and seasonal shifts.
• Set up new items for the replenishment system by collaborating with the merchant team.
• Analyze data to identify root causes for out of stocks and offer solutions.
• Support “never out” SKUs and top ranked corporate SKUs to inventory availability goals.
• Attend product knowledge seminars as assigned.
• Attend Grand Opening events and assist as appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Up to 10% of Travel

Skills

Computers & Microsoft Office

Retail experience 3-5 years

Inventory metrics knowledge

Forecasting principles

Math & analytical skills

Verbal & written communications

Problem solving & follow up

Time management & organization

Interpersonal & vendor relations

Job description

Blain’s Farm & Fleet in Wisconsin is seeking a demand planning specialist to forecast demand, manage inventory flow, and support in-stock goals across stores. You will generate POs, monitor stock levels, and collaborate with vendors and store teams to reduce stock-outs.

The role emphasizes data-driven forecasting, collaboration with merchandising, and occasional travel up to 10% to support promotions and Grand Opening events.