Demand Planner

Demand planners are employed by different departments within an organization, to carry out 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 the inventory levels and to ensure the effectiveness of supply chain initiatives. A bachelor's or higher degree in business administration, computing science or another related field, and a 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, and 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, and demand planners must also 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 workshops or training classes to stay current with their knowledge.

As a Demand Planner with 0-3 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to gather and analyze demand data, ensuring accurate forecasting and inventory optimization.
• Developing and maintaining demand plans, taking into account market trends, customer requirements, and historical sales data.
• Monitoring and managing inventory levels to ensure optimal stock availability.
• Identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance demand planning efficiency and accuracy.

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 crucial for efficient supply chain management. For individuals with 0-3 years of experience in Demand Planning in the United Kingdom, there are various alternative roles to consider. Here are following options:

• Inventory Analyst: A position involving analysis and optimization of inventory levels, ensuring optimal stock availability and cost control.
• Logistics Coordinator: A role focused on coordinating transportation, warehousing, and distribution activities to ensure timely and efficient movement of goods.
• Supply Chain Analyst: A position that involves analyzing supply chain data, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Operations Planner: A role focused on planning and scheduling production activities, ensuring the availability of resources and optimizing operational processes.

The demand planner role in the United Kingdom is expected to witness significant growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, it has shown a consistent upward trend due to the increasing importance of supply chain management. With businesses realizing the value of accurate demand forecasting, the demand planner role has become crucial in optimizing inventory levels and reducing costs. This trend is likely to continue in the future, leading to a rise in employment opportunities for demand planners. According to Google, the demand for this role is projected to increase steadily, making it a promising career option in the UK.