The Demand Planning Manager leads the forecasting and planning processes to ensure optimal inventory levels and production schedules that meet customer demand while minimizing costs. This role bridges sales, operations, and supply chain to develop accurate demand forecasts and effective inventory strategies, while playing a critical role in the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process.
Responsibilities
Team Leadership and Management
Supervise planners – responsible for every aspect including hiring, training, performance evaluations and salary assessments
Lead and develop the planning team to build forecasting capabilities through skill development
Foster a culture of continuous improvement and data-driven decision making
Demand Planning and Forecasting
Develop and implement demand planning strategies in coordination with the planning team based on client requirements
Create and maintain planning templates for each account to track inventory, sales, shipments, forecasts, demand, and KPIs
Monitor key performance indicators including forecast accuracy and inventory turns
Identify and resolve demand/supply imbalances proactively
Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP)
Lead and facilitate monthly S&OP meetings with cross-functional teams
Prepare demand review presentations including actual sales, forecast assumptions, and inventory strategies
Present demand scenarios and risk assessments to senior leadership
Drive alignment between commercial objectives and operational capabilities
Track and communicate S&OP decisions and action items across the organization
Analysis and Reporting
Overview of the weekly reports and analysis provided to each customer as well as account managers based on performance of replenishment items and categories
Generate monthly inventory flow updates showing forecasted ending inventory and excess by customer
Produce regular reports on forecast performance, inventory health, and planning metrics
Process Improvement
Implement continuous improvement initiatives for the demand planning process
Identify and implement new tools, technologies, and methodologies to improve planning processes
5+ years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or supply chain management
Deep understanding of inventory management principles and supply chain operations
Proven track record of improving forecast accuracy and inventory optimization
Experience leading and managing planning teams
Demonstrated experience participating in or leading S&OP processes
Proficiency with demand planning software and advance knowledge of ERP systems
Strong expertise in statistical methods and forecasting techniques
Advanced Excel skills and data analysis capabilities
Experience with business intelligence tools (Power BI, Tableau, or similar) is a plus
100% free public transit – Your commute is on us!
Flex hours – Enjoy 12 flex days per year to work from anywhere, plus WFH once a week
Free breakfast on Fridays – Start your last workday of the week with something tasty on us!
Early Fridays – Wrap up at 4:00 PM... or 1:30 PM in the summer!
A gift card on your birthday – happy birthday from us to you!
Summer rooftop terrace vibes – Work breaks with a view.
5 à 7 summer hangout – Chill out at Esplanade Louvain, an outdoor space with gardens and music right next door.
Team events & celebrations – Big thanks to our social committee for keeping the fun going!
On-site free gym access – Includes weight room, yoga, bootcamp, and Zumba classes.
Indoor bike parking – Ride worry–free, rain or shine.
Health & Dental – Insurance? We got you covered!