Business Demand Planner (Bellville )

Econo Foods Pty (Ltd); Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Business Demand Planner to optimize stock levels and enhance supply chain strategies. This role involves effective planning and forecasting to ensure sales growth and profitability. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in demand planning, excellent analytical skills, and proficiency in inventory management systems. Join a forward-thinking team where your contributions will directly impact operational performance and strategic goals. If you're ready to take on a challenging role that offers growth and development, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in category planning or demand planning.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills are essential for success.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and inventory management systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage stock quality and quantity to support supply chain strategies.
• Optimize stock levels and working capital through effective planning.
• Forecast demand and manage supplier and customer relationships.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem-solving Skills

Communication Skills

Collaboration Skills

Education

Matric or equivalent qualification

Bachelor’s degree in Business

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management

Bachelor’s degree in Economics

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Inventory Management Systems

ERP Systems

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job Title: Business Demand Planner (Bellville)

Location: Western Cape, Bellville

Deadline: June 02, 2025

Purpose of the Role

The Business Demand Planner manages stock quality and quantity to support category and supply chain strategies through effective planning and forecasting of sales, costs, purchases, and stock. The goal is to ensure sales and profit growth while optimizing working capital.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategy planning and operational execution
2. Demand forecasting
3. Supply chain and stock optimization
4. Order and Replenishment management
5. Supplier and customer management
6. Managing stock levels, aging stock, overstock, and short deliveries

Operational Performance Areas

1. Plan ordering and delivery cycles to optimize stock levels, working capital, and DC space
2. Ensure accurate replenishment ordering through demand forecasting
3. Manage demand forecasts for direct and transhipment demand
4. Provide historical performance and forecast data for promotional and deal buy-in items to category buyers
5. Monitor in-stock and overstock performance to ensure forecast accuracy
6. Review promotion performance against plans
7. Drive efficient ordering processes per supplier/category
8. Maintain optimal stock levels, stock turn, and days forward cover
9. Monitor warehouse and retail in-stock performance
10. Assess supplier fill-rate and delivery performance; communicate issues to buyers
11. Input buy-in order quantities to ensure profitability and stock availability
12. Review significant stock requests for store requests
13. Maintain stock levels aligned with days forward cover and stock turn governance
14. Use stock pulse system for accurate on-hand management
15. Communicate stock challenges proactively as per SOP
16. Coordinate with Retail Demand Planners on stock issues

Qualifications & Experience

• Matric or equivalent qualification
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Economics, or related field
• At least 3 years of experience in category planning, demand planning, or inventory management in retail or FMCG
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and inventory management or ERP systems
• Problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Attention to detail and organizational skills

Competencies Required

• Relationship building and interpersonal skills aligned with company values
• Teamwork and adaptability in a fast-paced environment
• Fluent communication in English
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Experience in storekeeping or procurement jobs