Lead Demand Planning

The role you will be taking on involves generating accurate statistical demand forecasts for the region using Demantra. This will require analyzing large datasets, applying statistical models, and identifying trends to drive forecast accuracy. Your collaboration with local market experts and global teams will be crucial to optimizing system usage, adopting best practices, and enhancing forecast quality. Your strong analytical and influencing skills will play a key role in aligning regional practices with global standards and supporting continuous improvement efforts. Your responsibilities will include developing and maintaining statistical forecasts by leveraging system capabilities, historical data, and advanced analytics to deliver high-accuracy projections. You will also work closely with in-country demand planning experts to refine forecasts for key brands and SKUs, aligning with local market intelligence and business priorities. As part of the Demand Management Center of Excellence (CoE) and the Central Forecasting Team, you will collaborate to optimize system usage, adopt best practices, and ensure adherence to governance and training standards. Your involvement in global initiatives and leadership in cross-functional projects may be required. Your strong influencing and communication skills will be essential in promoting the adoption of industry best practices and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Analyzing regional forecast trends and performance metrics (KPIs) to identify gaps, insights, risks, and opportunities that enhance forecast accuracy and effectiveness will be part of your responsibilities. Additionally, you will partner with IT and Analytics teams to co-develop the technology roadmap for demand planning and drive innovation by utilizing advanced tools such as AI/ML and automation in forecasting. Supporting scenario planning, exception management, and cross-functional projects will also be within your scope of work. Working with the global team to map processes and suggest improvements for the S&OP process will be an essential part of your role. In terms of qualifications, you should hold at least a Bachelor's degree, with certifications in Analytics/Data Science being preferred. Fluency in English is required, and fluency in a second language at international divisions is considered a plus. You should possess excellent quantitative, analytical, and organizational skills, as well as a working knowledge of applying statistical principles to improve results. Having a minimum of 5 years of working experience in statistical forecasting methods, using Demantra, SAP IBP, or proprietary tools is preferred, especially with hands-on forecasting and analytics experience. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, a structured problem-solving mindset, and the ability to work in a matrix organization are desired qualities. Business experience in the product industry and familiarity with a large and diverse product portfolio are considered advantageous. The ability to work under pressure, collaborate with global stakeholders, and knowledge of S&OP/Integrated Business Planning are also seen as valuable assets. Experience with SQL is a plus. Stryker is a global leader in medical technologies dedicated to making healthcare better for patients. The company offers innovative products and services in MedSurg, Neurotechnology, Orthopaedics, and Spine, impacting over 150 million patients annually.,