Remote Demand Planner - FMCG Supply Chain

About the Role

Our client, a leading global player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, is seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Remote Demand Planner to join their advanced supply chain team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere. You will be responsible for forecasting product demand across various channels and regions, ensuring optimal inventory levels, and supporting the efficiency of the supply chain. The ideal candidate will possess strong quantitative skills, a deep understanding of forecasting methodologies, and experience with supply chain planning tools. This role is critical in ensuring that our client can meet customer needs effectively while minimizing costs and waste. You will work closely with sales, marketing, and operations teams to align forecasts with business objectives and market dynamics.

This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a high-performing supply chain function within a renowned FMCG organization, leveraging your expertise in demand planning from a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop accurate demand forecasts for a diverse range of FMCG products using statistical models and collaborative input.
• Analyze historical sales data, market trends, promotional activities, and external factors to refine forecasts.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and finance teams to gather insights and ensure forecast alignment with business plans.
• Monitor forecast accuracy and identify root causes for deviations, implementing corrective actions.
• Manage and maintain demand planning systems and tools, ensuring data integrity and system performance.
• Support the sales and operations planning (S&OP) process by providing reliable demand forecasts.
• Optimize inventory levels to meet service level targets while minimizing excess stock and associated costs.
• Identify potential supply chain risks and opportunities related to demand fluctuations and communicate them to stakeholders.
• Prepare regular reports on demand forecasts, forecast accuracy, and inventory performance.
• Continuously evaluate and improve forecasting processes and methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Research, Statistics, Business, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in demand planning, supply chain planning, or forecasting, preferably within the FMCG industry .
• Strong understanding of statistical forecasting techniques and demand planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle Demantra, Kinaxis, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, including advanced formulas and data analysis capabilities.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams in a remote environment.
• Knowledge of S&OP processes is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with the South African market dynamics is an advantage.
• Experience with ERP systems is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• The flexibility and convenience of a fully remote work position.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in supply chain planning.
• Contribution to the operational excellence of a leading global FMCG company.
• Access to industry-leading planning software and tools.
• Regular performance feedback and career advancement pathways.
• A supportive and collaborative virtual team environment.
• Allowance for home office setup and internet connectivity.
• The chance to shape demand planning strategies in a significant market.
• Participation in innovative supply chain projects.