Demand Planner

The primary responsibility of the Demand Planner is to align the material forecast with the sales plan while establishing appropriate safety stock levels to meet customer service expectations. This role collaborates closely with Sales, Marketing, Finance, Operations, and suppliers to support on-time delivery goals and effective inventory management.

The Demand Planner manages inventory for assigned SKUs, supports new product launches, integrates supply chains from acquired businesses, and ensures accurate ERP and financial planning inputs. This role manages a diverse inventory portfolio valued in the millions and is measured primarily by service level performance and inventory turnover.

• Leads the monthly consensus forecast process in collaboration with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Operations as part of the SIOP process
• Secures cross-functional alignment on key forecast assumptions and volume changes
• Supports business and sales plans through accurate demand forecasting
• Evaluates supplier capabilities including lead times and production capacity and develops strategies to meet service levels
• Proactively communicates material demand changes to downstream supply chain partners
• Maintains A/B/C SKU rankings and stocking strategies
• Conducts lead-time forecasting to support appropriate inventory and safety stock levels
• Invests in inventory to balance service levels, profitability, and cash flow
• Communicates monthly inventory health plans for assigned SKUs
• Analyzes market trends to support strategic buying decisions
• Manages new item launches, reviews product mix, and maintains replenishment system settings
• Notifies execution teams of purchase order creation, cancellations, and changes
• Conducts regular data validation in replenishment systems and corrects discrepancies
• Collaborates with Finance, Product Development, Management, and Warehouse teams as needed
• Identifies and implements continuous improvement opportunities
• Performs other duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience
• 3–5 years of experience in demand planning, inventory management, and/or international procurement
• Intermediate experience with replenishment systems and Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Proactive self-starter with strong attention to detail
• Ability to remain composed in high-pressure situations
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact at all organizational levels

• ISM CPSM and/or APICS CSCP or CPIM certification

Consistent interaction with Operations, Finance, Sourcing leadership, and various levels of employees. May also interact with external suppliers and third-party partners.