Strategic Demand Planning Lead

Mars; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 87,000 - 119,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid vacation

Paid time off

Holiday pay

Short-term disability

Life insurance

Pet insurance discounts

Wellness benefits

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Nature’s Bakery, now part of the Mars family, seeks a Manager of Demand Planning to lead forecasting, S&OP, and cross‑functional alignment across sales, marketing, finance and operations. You will drive forecast accuracy, manage the demand planning process, and translate market dynamics into reliable signals; ERP/APS experience (Blue Yonder or Kinaxis) and up to 20% travel are required.

This role demands strong analytical capability and collaboration with global teams to enable efficient

Qualifications

• B.S./BA in supply chain, science or engineering; Master preferred.
• 5+ years supply chain experience in global consumer goods.
• Experience with forecasting, inventory management, or collaborative planning.
• ERP and APS experience; Blue Yonder/Kinaxis preferred.
• Up to 20% travel.

Responsibilities

• Lead demand planning with forecast accuracy and bias targets.
• Drive disciplined demand consensus reviews.
• Coordinate forecast handoffs with supply planning and execution.
• Provide S&OP inputs for Steps 2 and 3 with data integrity.
• Collaborate with sales/marketing/customers on 30/60/90 forecasts.
• Deliver account-level reporting on risks, gaps, and opportunities.
• Support VIP account planning and alignment.
• Champion CI to enhance forecasting tools and processes.
• Translate market dynamics into accurate forecasts.
• Prioritize demand during supply constraints.

Skills

Forecasting

Demand planning

Cross‑functional leadership

Analytical skills

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's in supply chain management/engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Blue Yonder

Kinaxis

Job description

Nature’s Bakery, now part of the Mars family, seeks a Manager of Demand Planning to lead forecasting, S&OP, and cross‑functional alignment across sales, marketing, finance and operations. You will drive forecast accuracy, manage the demand planning process, and translate market dynamics into reliable signals; ERP/APS experience (Blue Yonder or Kinaxis) and up to 20% travel are required.

This role demands strong analytical capability and collaboration with global teams to enable efficient