Supply Planner

Job Description
The Supply Planner is responsible for developing and managing accurate demand and supply forecasts to ensure optimal production planning, material availability, and efficient warehouse utilization. The role coordinates cross-functional inputs, analyzes data from ERP and planning systems, and collaborates with suppliers and internal teams to maintain inventory balance, prevent stockouts, and support overall supply chain performance.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Operational Forecast Management

• Adapt Sales Forecasts: Adjust operational forecasts based on updated sales input to ensure accuracy and relevance.
• Quantify Promotional Impacts: Assess and quantify the impact of marketing or sales events on production plans.
• Integrate Marketing Insights: Incorporate promotional and event information into forecasts to align production with market demand.

Material and Container Availability

• Ensure Availability: Ensure sufficient materials and containers are available to meet production plans efficiently.
• Cost Management: Optimize material and container procurement to minimize costs while meeting production requirements.
• Supplier Coordination: Collaborate with suppliers to ensure timely production and delivery of key materials, maintaining compliance with weeks of cover requirements.

Forecast Accuracy and Monitoring

• Maintain Rolling Forecast: Develop and maintain an accurate 18-month rolling estimate forecast aligned with company strategy.
• Monitor Short-Term Forecasts: Review and maintain a 13-week operational forecast, ensuring high accuracy for short-term planning and MRP.
• Validate Sales Data: Validate sales history and integrate promotional and new product information into forecasts for improved accuracy.

Cross-Disciplinary Integration and Communication

• Enhance Business Understanding: Gain exposure to various planning and logistics disciplines to enhance overall business understanding and integration.
• Forecast Analytics: Create high-quality forecasts and analytics using available systems and inputs from sales and marketing.
• Communicate Effectively: Facilitate effective communication across organizational levels to ensure alignment and consensus in the forecasting process.

Systems management

• Analyze and leverage distribution information to improve planning and operational decisions.
• Ensure that master data is accurate and up-to-date, supporting effective planning and system performance.

Skills, Experience & Education

Qualifications:

• A formal, relevant, qualification (e.g. BComm degree, BSC or a degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain or Logistics).

Skills:

• Forecasting Abilities to predict future stock requirements and adjust plans accordingly
• Analytical Skills to accurately determine stock requirements and assess inventory levels.
• Organizational Skills to manage warehouse capacities efficiently and optimize space utilization.
• Problem-Solving Skills to address and prevent stock outs and potential shortages proactively.
• Technical Proficiency to navigate and utilize ERP and APS systems for data management and reporting.
• Attention to Detail to maintain and validate accurate master data in ERP and APS systems.
• Coordination and Planning Skills To effectively manage deployment activities and ensure timely deliveries.

Experience:

• At least 3 years in FMCG planning (Demand / Supply)
• Experience in using an ERP system, specifically MRP
• Supply Chain & Manufacturing Planning experience.
• Exposure and Knowledge of Logistics & Distribution processes.
• Technical, Marketing, Financial and Commercial Business Acumen

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