Sr. Manager, Demand Planning Analytics

Ferrero SpA; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 114,450 - 160,230; Full time

Job summary

Ferrara is seeking a Demand Planning Analytics Manager to develop and lead advanced statistical forecasting capabilities within SAP IBP. You will oversee a team of analysts, collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders, and translate analytics into actionable planning processes.

The role requires a balance of technical modeling with strategic thinking, strong communication, and the ability to drive business value.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in demand planning or analytics.
• Experience with SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) or similar platforms.
• Proficiency with statistical modeling techniques, machine learning, Python, SQL.
• Strong understanding of S&OP/IBP, inventory management, and demand planning.
• Master's degree and/or APICS CPIM or CSCP certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and continuous improvement of statistical forecasting models within SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) to improve forecast accuracy across Ferrara's portfolio.
• Analyze large and complex datasets to identify demand patterns, trends, and opportunities that improve forecasting performance and business outcomes.
• Drive the adoption of advanced analytics, machine learning, demand sensing, and predictive modeling capabilities to strengthen planning decisions.
• Establish and monitor KPIs that measure forecast accuracy, model performance, and business impact while driving continuous improvement.
• Develop dashboards, reports, and analytical insights that support strategic and operational decision-making across the organization.
• Partner with Demand Planning, Supply Planning, Commercial, Finance, IT, and other cross-functional teams to identify opportunities where analytics can create measurable business value.
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Demand Planning Analysts, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and analytical methodologies that enhance forecasting capabilities and strengthen Ferrara's planning processes.

Skills

Statistical forecasting

Predictive analytics

Demand planning

Cross-functional influence

Communication skills

Continuous improvement

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree / APICS CPIM or CSCP

Tools

SAP IBP

Kinaxis

Blue Yonder

o9

Python

SQL

Job description

At Ferrara, Ferrero, Fox’s Burton’s, and The Fine Biscuits Company, we’re loved by people of all generations for the joy we bring—and that joy is crafted by our people. Join us and explore a whole world to discover, where your passion will find its place.

Today, Ferrara is the #1 sugar confectioner in the U.S, with global sales in more than 40 countries. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of over 9,000 employees around the world who deliver and create hundreds of iconic and beloved products.

In the U.S., more than 67 million households annually enjoy our popular brands like NERDS®, Brach’s®, Jelly Belly®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, and Trolli®. In Brazil, Dori has become a household name with snacking products that include brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100. And, in France, Carambar & Co have earned generations of loyal customers through the timeless appeal of iconic candy and chocolate brands such as Carambar, Lutti, Krema, Poulain, Vichy and Terry’s. A privately held company, Ferrara Group is headquartered in Chicago. Ferrara boasts a network of over 30 locations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia Pacific that includes manufacturing, distribution, sales, and R&D facilities.

Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more) is essential for: effective communication including during in-person meetings, strong supervision, real-time problem-solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives.

Want to make an impact?

This position will be responsible for developing and leading advanced statistical and predictive modeling capabilities to enhance forecast accuracy and support data-driven decision-making across the organization. This role oversees the design, deployment, and continuous improvement of demand planning analytics within SAP IBP, ensuring models and insights are effectively translated into actionable business strategies.

The manager will lead a team of analysts, partner closely with cross-functional stakeholders, and drive the integration of analytical insights into planning and operational processes. Success in this role requires a balance of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills to align analytical innovation with business value and long-term growth.

Ways you will make a difference

• Lead the development and continuous improvement of statistical forecasting models within SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) to improve forecast accuracy across Ferrara's portfolio
• Analyze large and complex datasets to identify demand patterns, trends, and opportunities that improve forecasting performance and business outcomes.
• Drive the adoption of advanced analytics, machine learning, demand sensing, and predictive modeling capabilities to strengthen planning decisions.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) that measure forecast accuracy, model performance, and business impact while driving continuous improvement.
• Develop dashboards, reports, and analytical insights that support strategic and operational decision-making across the organization.
• Partner with Demand Planning, Supply Planning, Commercial, Finance, IT, and other cross-functional teams to identify opportunities where analytics can create measurable business value.
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Demand Planning Analysts, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and analytical methodologies that enhance forecasting capabilities and strengthen Ferrara's planning processes.

Skills that will make you successful

• Strong expertise in statistical forecasting, predictive analytics, and demand planning methodologies.
• Ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable business recommendations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Experience leading technical teams while effectively influencing cross-functional stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a passion for leveraging technology to solve business challenges.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Experiences that will support your success

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Analytics, Data Science, Statistics, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in demand planning, supply chain analytics, forecasting, data science, or a related analytical discipline.
• Experience developing statistical forecasting models and improving forecast accuracy within enterprise planning systems.
• Experience with SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) or similar demand planning platforms such as Kinaxis, Blue Yonder, or o9.
• Proficiency with statistical modeling techniques, machine learning, Python, SQL, or similar analytical tools.
• Strong understanding of Supply Chain planning processes, including S&OP/IBP, inventory management, and demand planning.
• Master's degree and/or APICS CPIM or CSCP certification preferred.

What We Offer

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $114,450 - $160,230 annually.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.