Remote Demand Planner - FMCG Supply Chain

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 450,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Home office support

Professional development

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly analytical Remote Demand Planner for a leading FMCG client. You will forecast demand across channels, optimize inventory, and support the S&OP process in a fully remote role.

You’ll collaborate with sales, marketing and finance, analyze historical data and external factors, and apply statistical methods. Proficiency in Excel and planning tools is required; knowledge of the South African market is a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Research, Statistics, Business or related quantitative field.
• 3+ years in demand planning, preferably FMCG.
• Strong knowledge of statistical forecasting techniques and planning software.
• Proficiency in MS Excel with advanced data analysis capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop accurate demand forecasts using statistical models and input from cross-functional teams.
• Analyze historical sales data, market trends and promotions to refine forecasts.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing and finance to align forecasts with business plans.
• Monitor forecast accuracy and identify root causes of deviations.
• Maintain demand planning systems and ensure data integrity and performance.
• Support S&OP processes with reliable demand projections.
• Optimize inventory to meet service levels and minimize costs.

Skills

Forecasting skills

Excel advanced

Forecasting software

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field

Tools

SAP APO

Oracle Demantra

Kinaxis

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading global player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, is seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Remote Demand Planner to join their advanced supply chain team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere. You will be responsible for forecasting product demand across various channels and regions, ensuring optimal inventory levels, and supporting the efficiency of the supply chain. The ideal candidate will possess strong quantitative skills, a deep understanding of forecasting methodologies, and experience with supply chain planning tools. This role is critical in ensuring that our client can meet customer needs effectively while minimizing costs and waste. You will work closely with sales, marketing, and operations teams to align forecasts with business objectives and market dynamics. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a high-performing supply chain function within a renowned FMCG organization, leveraging your expertise in demand planning from a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop accurate demand forecasts for a diverse range of FMCG products using statistical models and collaborative input.
• Analyze historical sales data, market trends, promotional activities, and external factors to refine forecasts.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and finance teams to gather insights and ensure forecast alignment with business plans.
• Monitor forecast accuracy and identify root causes for deviations, implementing corrective actions.
• Manage and maintain demand planning systems and tools, ensuring data integrity and system performance.
• Support the sales and operations planning (S&OP) process by providing reliable demand forecasts.
• Optimize inventory levels to meet service level targets while minimizing excess stock and associated costs.
• Identify potential supply chain risks and opportunities related to demand fluctuations and communicate them to stakeholders.
• Prepare regular reports on demand forecasts, forecast accuracy, and inventory performance.
• Continuously evaluate and improve forecasting processes and methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Research, Statistics, Business, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in demand planning, supply chain planning, or forecasting, preferably within the FMCG industry .
• Strong understanding of statistical forecasting techniques and demand planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle Demantra, Kinaxis, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, including advanced formulas and data analysis capabilities.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams in a remote environment.
• Knowledge of S&OP processes is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with the South African market dynamics is an advantage.
• Experience with ERP systems is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• The flexibility and convenience of a fully remote work position.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in supply chain planning.
• Contribution to the operational excellence of a leading global FMCG company.
• Access to industry-leading planning software and tools.
• Regular performance feedback and career advancement pathways.
• A supportive and collaborative virtual team environment.
• Allowance for home office setup and internet connectivity.
• The chance to shape demand planning strategies in a significant market.
• Participation in innovative supply chain projects.