Demand Planner

Demand planners are employed by different departments within an organization to conduct revenue forecasting and inventory level alignment in accordance with seasonal demand, material planning, as well as procurement forecasting. They also employ the operational Supply Chain Management (SCM) procedure to create accurate forecasts.

Demand planners might need collaborate with different departments to track inventory levels and ensure the effectiveness of supply chain initiatives. A bachelor's or higher degree in business administration, computing science or another related field, and relevant work experience is usually required for this job, and they should also be proficient in using different computer and software applications like SAP, ECC, SAS, APO as well as Microsoft Office programs. They could be a part of a procurement manager or product manager, or sales manager, depending on the company.

Communication as well as presentation abilities are essential for this job Demand planners must be organized and be able to work on their own and working in a group. They should pay focus on market trends in the process of preparing forecasts, and they may also read professional journals or take part in classes or workshops to stay current with their knowledge.

As a Demand Planner with 3-6 years of experience in India, your main responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and maintain accurate demand forecasts, ensuring efficient supply chain operations. Engage with teams to create and update demand forecasts for products/services.
• Analyzing historical sales data and market trends to identify demand patterns and forecast accuracy improvements. Utilize data analysis to identify trends and make data-driven decisions on improving forecast accuracy.
• Conducting regular demand planning meetings with stakeholders to discuss forecasts, inventory levels, and potential risks. Facilitate meetings to discuss demand planning strategies, inventory management, and risk assessment.
• Monitoring and reporting on demand planning metrics, such as forecast accuracy, inventory levels, and customer service levels.

For a Demand Planner job role, the following qualifications are required:

• Strong analytical skills to analyze sales data, market trends, and historical demand patterns to accurately forecast demand for products or services.
• Proficiency in using demand planning software and advanced Excel functions to create and maintain demand forecasts, inventory plans, and production schedules.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to effectively interact with sales, marketing, production, and supply chain teams to ensure alignment and achieve demand planning objectives.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on accuracy and ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines and adapt to changing business requirements.

The role of Demand Planner is vital for effective demand forecasting and supply chain management. With 3-6 years of experience in India, professionals in this field can explore various alternative roles. Here are four options to consider:

• Supply Chain Analyst: A role involving data analysis and optimization of supply chain processes, including inventory management and logistics coordination.
• Category Manager: A position focused on developing and implementing category strategies, managing vendor relationships, and optimizing product assortments.
• Operations Manager: A role that entails overseeing the day-to-day operations of a business, including inventory control, production planning, and process improvement.
• Sales and Operations Planner: A position that involves aligning sales forecasts with production and inventory plans, facilitating cross-functional collaboration, and balancing demand and supply.

The demand planner role in India is expected to witness significant growth in the market due to increasing globalization and the need for efficient supply chain management. According to a 10-year analysis, the job role is projected to experience a steady rise in demand, with a strong outlook for employment opportunities. Google data indicates a rising trend in job postings for demand planners in recent years, reflecting the growing importance of this role in industries across India. Continued economic growth and expansion will likely lead to an increased number of employment opportunities for demand planners, making it a promising career choice.