Job
Description
Role Overview: As the Demand Planning Team Leader, you will be responsible for leading the demand forecasting, material master data management, and MIS reporting functions to ensure accurate demand planning and inventory optimization across the retail supply chain. You will collaborate closely with sales, marketing, supply, and distribution teams to drive forecast accuracy, manage SKU data integrity, and support the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process. Additionally, you will lead and develop a small team to enhance supply chain excellence in a dynamic, high-growth paint industry environment. Key Responsibilities: - Lead the demand planning process by analyzing historical sales trends and sales drivers to generate precise demand forecasts in a dynamic market. - Continuously improve forecast accuracy KPI and conduct consensus-building meetings with cross-functional stakeholders. - Review and influence location-level SKU sales plans within the Planning Module to ensure alignment with market realities. - Engage proactively with Sales and Marketing teams to synchronize demand plans and update forecast data as required. - Drive the S&OP and consensus planning processes to finalize firm demand numbers, enabling supply chain responsiveness. - Participate in New Product Introduction (NPI) processes from the SCM perspective, coordinating with supply, distribution, and material master teams. - Maintain Material Master data in SAP, ensuring SKU creation and master data accuracy through collaboration with relevant internal functions. - Act as the single point of contact (SPOC) for all demand change approvals and manage exceptions by conducting root cause analysis on demand pattern changes. - Collaborate with Sales and Marketing to comprehend market demand fluctuations and adjust plans accordingly. - Represent the SCM function in cross-functional projects focused on process improvement and operational excellence. - Develop and publish SCM dashboards and reports in Power BI to analyze data trends, supporting continuous improvement initiatives. - Explore and leverage emerging technologies in the AI domain, particularly expert systems and generative AI, to facilitate faster decision-making. - Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual MIS reports and budgets, ensuring timely and accurate data presentation while providing key insights to internal and external teams. - Lead and implement digital solutions within the SCM domain. - Mentor and develop a team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous learning. Qualification Required: - Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field; MBA or equivalent is a plus. - Minimum 3 years of experience in demand planning, supply chain management, or related roles, preferably in FMCG or paint industry. - Demonstrated experience in managing cross-functional stakeholder relationships. - Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret large data sets and generate actionable insights. - Advanced proficiency in MS Excel, Power BI, and experience with SAP or similar ERP systems. - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively. - Assertive, proactive, and adaptable to fast-paced, high-growth business environments. - Strong problem-solving mindset with attention to detail and process improvement orientation. - Knowledge of Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process and SKU rationalization techniques.,
