Job Summary:
As a pivotal member of our team, you will spearhead the management and optimization of product demand forecasting for a mid to long-term horizon, leveraging diverse data sources such as sales figures, marketing insights, and market statistics. Your primary objective will be to align forecasts with budgetary targets and desired service levels while closely monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs). This role requires adept consolidation of client and customer-level forecasts, aggregating them to the country level for comprehensive net sales and volume projections. Additionally, you will play a central role in our Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process, leading demand reviews to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
General Responsibilities:
- Develop an 18-month unconstrained bottoms-up forecast, integrating trade activity calendars across the product lifecycle, including New Product Development (NPD), phase-in, phase-out, and obsolescence phases.
- Take ownership of the demand review process by critically evaluating assumptions, identifying opportunities and risks, and strategizing promotions.
- Proactively collaborate with client management, sales, and supply chain teams to enhance forecast accuracy and optimize inventory management.
- Foster cross-functional collaboration to establish unified market figures, facilitating streamlined supply and inventory planning.
- Identify and address discrepancies between supply and demand, leading teams in scenario planning and providing actionable recommendations.
- Prepare presentation materials showcasing forecast versus actual trends with insightful data analysis for internal and external S&OP meetings.
- Develop tracking reports to analyse forecast trends, historical promotions, and off-take patterns, providing valuable business intelligence.
Leadership Responsibilities:
- Serve as a senior team member, ensuring the effective achievement of team goals through collaboration and mentorship.
- Lead projects aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the S&OP process, leveraging your expertise to drive continuous improvement.
- Foster a culture of self-learning and development, both within the forecasting domain and in alignment with DKSH behavioural standards.
Functional Skills and Knowledge:
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding and practical application of Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) processes.
- Exhibit advanced proficiency in demand forecasting methodologies and tools, utilizing analytical and quantitative skills to drive informed decision-making.
- Possess a strong grasp of business and commercial acumen, coupled with a deep understanding of the FMCG market dynamics.
- Showcase proficiency in office productivity tools such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, along with a solid understanding of supply chain management principles.
Soft Skills:
- Exhibit strong stakeholder management, presentation, and negotiation skills, enabling effective communication and collaboration across diverse teams and stakeholders.
Education:
- University degree preferably with a certificate in business, supply chain, logistics, or a related field.
Work Experience:
- Minimum of three to five years' experience in a similar role, demonstrating a track record of success in demand forecasting and S&OP processes.
