Demand Management is a highly iterative process that involves driving to a revenue and profit target through prioritization of customers, channels, products, geographies and the demand stimulation programs available to the business. One segment of this is Demand Forecasting which is essentially a linear process of translating input assumptions into a forecast of expected sales.

 

The main goal of the Demand Planning and Management Planner is to be instrumental in optimizing inventory levels, managing costs and ensuring customers are kept happy by implementing dynamic demand and supply management best-of-breed techniques, technologies and practices.

 

As a Demand Planning and Management practitioner, it is the Planner’s responsibility to balance internal, economic and technological factors to fulfill demands of customer base, better leverage past product performance and more effectively predict and manage replenishment, align price and profit margins, and maintain a leaner, more profitable supply chain overall.

 

Demand Planning and Management is also the integration point of the supply chain and commercial organization. Thus, the Planner must exhibit good leadership skills to continuously build credibility of the Demand Planning and Management Team within the business unit and among cross-functional groups such as Supply Planning, Procurement, Sales, Marketing, Manufacturing and Logistics.

 

 

Strong interpersonal skills

Proven capability to speak his/her mind and explain the thought rationale Convincing power and capability Ability to work with other people, as well as ready and willing to compromise when necessary Highly collaborative Relationship-builder

 

Built developmental skills

Has a passion for learning and the ability to keep up with new developments in the demand management discipline

 

 

Solid quantitative background

Ability to understand numbers and trends and translate it into a common language (layman’s term) Background in statistics and advanced forecasting techniques Extensive spreadsheet analysis and strong mathematical abilities

 

Proficient in relevant computer applications

Mastery of MS Excel and Powerpoint Knowledgeable in ERP statistical software packages (e.g. APO or Demantra) With working knowledge on Macro Programming

 

Developed communication skills

Ability to effectively and efficiently exchange information and listen to others Ability to "sell" the forecast and corresponding assumptions to key stakeholders to get their commitment and buy-in

 

Organizational skills

Good understanding of the business culture and the demand planning's place in the organization