Job
Description
Role Summary: We are seeking a highly analytical and results-oriented Manager, S&OP to join our dynamic team. In the fast-paced world of cloud kitchens, this role is critical for balancing the twin goals of maximizing item availability for our customers and minimizing food wastage across our network. You will be responsible for developing and managing accurate demand forecasts across all product categories, leveraging deep analysis of sales mix and consumption trends. This role requires strong proficiency in Excel, SQL, and Python to handle complex datasets and drive data-driven decision-making within our S&OP process. You will collaborate closely with Pod Operations, Growth, and Marketing teams to ensure our planning aligns with operational realities and commercial strategies. Key Responsibilities: 1. Demand Planning & Forecasting: Develop, maintain, and refine short-to-medium term demand forecasts for all product categories at relevant granularities (e.g., item, pod/zone, city). Utilize statistical methods, historical data analysis (via SQL, Python, Excel), and incorporate market intelligence to generate baseline forecasts. Analyze and model the impact of promotions, marketing campaigns, local events, seasonality, and menu changes on demand. Monitor forecast accuracy and bias KPIs, identifying root causes for variances and implementing corrective actions to continuously improve forecast quality. Prepare and lead demand review discussions within the S&OP cycle, presenting forecasts, assumptions, risks, and opportunities. 2. Sales Mix & Consumption Trend Analysis: Perform in-depth analysis of sales data using SQL and Python to understand mix shifts, attachment rates, and cannibalization effects. Analyze consumption patterns (e.g., order times, platform trends, customer behaviour) to identify key demand drivers and potential shifts. Connect sales and consumption trends directly to their impact on item availability and wastage metrics. Provide actionable insights to Marketing, Growth, and Culinary teams regarding product performance and portfolio optimization opportunities. 3. S&OP Process Contribution & KPI Management: Play a key role in the monthly and weekly S&OP cycle, ensuring timely inputs and effective collaboration. Continuously monitor, analyze, and report on key performance indicators: Item Availability and Wastage %. Develop insights and drive actions aimed at optimizing the trade-off between availability and wastage through improved forecasting and cross-functional alignment. Contribute to the ongoing improvement and maturity of the S&OP process within the organization. 4. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Pod Operations teams to gather localized insights, understand operational constraints, and ensure effective execution of plans. Collaborate with Growth & Marketing teams to align demand forecasts with promotional calendars, new product development (NPD), and market expansion plans. Engage with Finance and Procurement teams as needed for financial planning and supply feasibility inputs. 5. Data Analysis & Tool Usage: Leverage Advanced Excel, SQL, and Python for data extraction, manipulation, analysis, modeling, and reporting. Develop and maintain dashboards and reports to track performance and communicate insights effectively. Qualifications & Skills: Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering (B.Tech) + MBA (supply chain specialization) Experience: 2 - 4 years of relevant experience in Demand Planning, S&OP, Supply Chain Management, or Business Analytics. Proven experience working in a fast-paced environment such as QSR (Quick Service Restaurants), E-commerce, Food Delivery, FMCG (with short shelf-life products), or Retail is highly preferred. Technical Skills: Required: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (complex formulas, pivot tables, modeling). Required: Strong proficiency in SQL for querying and data manipulation. Required: Proficiency in Python for data analysis and potentially forecasting model development (e.g., using libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn). Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Exceptional quantitative and analytical skills with the ability to work through complex problems, manipulate large datasets, and derive actionable insights. Business Acumen: Strong understanding of business drivers, financial implications (especially cost of goods, wastage), and the P&L impact of planning decisions.
