Category Planning Manager

Fleet Pride is the largest after-market distributor of heavy-duty truck and trailer parts in the U.S. with some of the best and brightest people in the business! Partner with the best in the heavy-duty industry and apply today!

The Category Planning Manager is responsible for leading the development, execution, and continuous improvement of demand forecasting processes across the organization. This role leverages ERP Systems and advanced analytics to drive forecast accuracy, optimize inventory levels, and support business growth. The position partners cross-functionally with Merchandising, Supply Chain, Finance, and Operations to align demand plans with strategic business objectives.

Key Responsibilities Demand Planning & Forecasting Lead the monthly demand planning cycle, including statistical forecasting, consensus planning, and executive S&OP alignment

Develop and maintain accurate forecasts at multiple levels (SKU, location, channel) using Demand Planning tools

Monitor and improve forecast accuracy, bias, and key KPIs across product categories

Manage short-term and long-term demand signals, including seasonality, promotions, and market trends

Blue Yonder System Ownership Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for Demand Planning Configure, optimize, and maintain forecasting models, parameters, and exception management workflows

Analyze system outputs (e.g., exception graphs, projected stockouts) to proactively mitigate risks

Partner with IT and data teams to enhance system capabilities, integrations, and automation

Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Merchandising, Sales, and Marketing to incorporate promotional and business insights into forecasts

Collaborate with Supply Planning and Inventory teams to align demand and replenishment strategies

Facilitate demand review meetings and drive alignment across stakeholders

Communicate risks, opportunities, and actionable insights to leadership

Analytics & Performance Management Develop and maintain KPI dashboards (forecast accuracy, service levels, inventory turns, bias)
Identify root causes of forecast variances and implement corrective actions

Lead continuous improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and accuracy in planning processes

Utilize Power BI, Excel, and other tools to present insights and trends

Team Leadership & Development Manage and develop a team of demand planners (where applicable)
Establish standardized processes, documentation, and training programs

Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Drive adoption of best practices in demand planning and system utilization

Qualifications Required Bachelor ’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or related field5+ years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or supply chain analytics

Hands-on experience with Blue Yonder (JDA) Demand Planning Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI)
Experience leading or participating in S&OP / IBP processes

Proven ability to manage cross-functional stakeholders and drive alignment

Preferred

Experience in multi-channel environments (retail, wholesale, eCommerce, DTC)
Knowledge of inventory optimization, replenishment strategies, and supply planning integration

Experience with large datasets, automation, and process improvement initiatives

Lean / Six Sigma or continuous improvement background

Key Competencies Data-driven decision making

Strategic thinking and business acumen

Strong communication and executive presentation skills

Attention to detail and process discipline

Ability to manage priorities in a fast-paced environment

Success Metrics Forecast accuracy and bias improvement

Inventory optimization (DIOH, turns, working capital)
Service level attainment and product availability

Adoption and effective use of Blue Yonder planning capabilities

Process efficiency and cycle time reduction

Fleet

Pride is the leader in the industry comprised of retail, service, distribution and wholesale divisions.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
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