Demand Planning Manager

Freeman Company; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 79,000; Full time

Job summary

Freeman Company is seeking a Demand Planning Manager to oversee inventory management and forecasting. This role involves collaboration with various teams to ensure efficient utilization of rental equipment and offers a hybrid work schedule. The ideal candidate will have experience in inventory systems and a commitment to customer service.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

Tuition Reimbursement

Paid Parental Leave

Life, Accident, and Disability Insurance

Retirement Plan with Company Match

Paid Time Off

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years’ experience using Inventory Systems for Demand Planning.
• At least three years of industry experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage forecasting, transportation, and utilization of rental equipment inventory.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain and Branch Operations to meet event requirements.
• Generate reports on utilization, substitutions, loss, damage, and shortages.

Skills

Inventory Systems

Forecasting

Cost Management

Customer Service

Education

High School Diploma

College Degree (preferred)

Job description

Join us as a Demand Planning Manager at Freeman Company

Be among the first 25 applicants to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Freeman is a global leader in events, dedicated to redefining live experiences for a new era. With a data-driven approach and the industry’s largest network of experts, Freeman’s insights shape exhibitions, exhibits, and events that drive audiences to action. Our integrated full-service solutions leverage a 97-year legacy in event management combined with new technologies to deliver moments that matter.

Position Overview

The Demand Planning Manager is responsible for managing forecasting, transportation, transfers, and utilization of rental equipment inventory—including furniture, build systems, floor coverings, drapes, and more—at the branch level. This role collaborates with Supply Chain, Branch Operations, and Procurement to meet all rental equipment event requirements. The focus is on cost savings through maximizing utilization and reducing transportation and labor costs associated with the movement of rental equipment across the enterprise. The role involves professional interaction with customers, team members, and third-party vendors/partners to ensure the highest level of customer service.

This position supports our Event & Exhibit Services team and offers a hybrid work schedule, typically requiring in-office and/or show-site work 2-3 days per week. The ideal candidate will be based in Chicago, IL.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the field to capture and forecast rental equipment demand and maintain the Enterprise Inventory System.
• Use the Enterprise Inventory System for projections, identifying shortages, inter-branching, and tracking rental inventory.
• Evaluate future branch and regional demand to minimize transportation and labor costs.
• Communicate with branches regarding storage space and coordinate equipment movements as needed.
• Identify rollover opportunities and develop execution plans.
• Work with Design and Growth teams to ensure delivery timelines are met for accurate forecast entry.
• Monitor equipment losses and damages, and oversee repair and replacement processes.
• Ensure compliance with inventory-related SOPs, including system usage, inter-branching, and inventory adjustments.
• Coordinate with Procurement for additional equipment purchases as needed.
• Generate reports on utilization, substitutions, loss, damage, and shortages.
• Assist in making recommendations for inventory replacements or increases through the CapEx process, including creating business cases.
• Communicate clearly with field personnel regarding inventory movements.
• Plan and conduct bi-annual inventory counts.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• College Degree preferred; High School Diploma required.
• At least three years of industry experience preferred.
• Minimum of three years’ experience using Inventory Systems for Demand Planning.

Travel Requirements

Up to 25% travel expected.

What We Offer

Freeman provides comprehensive benefits to support our employees' mental, physical, and financial well-being, including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave
• Life, Accident, and Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Paid Time Off
• Salary range: $55,725 - $79,000, based on experience

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can reach their goals and connect with each other. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.

Additional Information

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Project Management
• Industry: Events Services