Responsibilities:

• Define and implement the forecasting operations – including systems, master data, planning, additional product inputs, performance objectives and communications activities – to deliver best in class product availability and customer service  Develops and executes the divisional forecast plan across multiple product categories, supply chains and planning periods – including short, mid & long term translation of business requirements and strategies into the forecast
• Applies strong knowledge of statistical forecasting methodologies, modeling and calibration to determine best fit that delivers forecasting efficiencies; business understanding and collaboration; and analytical capabilities to build robust 24 month rolling monthly forecasts (to move to weekly forecasts) that feed supply planning
• Facilitates the cross-functional forecasting process, organizing integration and communication process or activities as needed to ensure robust and transparent discussions and alignment on the final forecast
• Applies strong analytical capabilities to prepare fact-based insights that drive discussion and influence correct forecast outcomes as part of the monthly consensus process
• Develops and gains buy-in from business partners on item level unit forecast and monthly consensus revenue forecast to include: new product forecasts, product sell through and customer inventory levels; promotional forecasts; gap management between bottom up demand forecast and top down management dollar forecast
• Monitors shipment and POS demand data to determine patterns, trends, variability to include but not limited to deviations due to weather, competitive situations and customer inventory management strategies
• In collaboration with supply chain and business stakeholders, implements and drives robust participation and corresponding materials as part of the organization’s Sales & Operations process to deliver a best in class operating model
• Ensures proper system maintenance with responsibility for customer item attributes to include listing status, promotional status, store count, customer item numbers and forecast price; appropriately managing inputs, system alerts, master data, etc. to ensure quality outputs
• Creates the baseline Annual Operating Plan Forecast as part of the annual planning process and facilitates monthly roll-up reporting
• Fosters an environment of respect, teamwork, collaboration and accountability throughout the manufacturing operation and with the other divisional departments

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Technical discipline or equivalent
• 10 years’ experience, with 5+ years hands-on experience in the use of ERP, planning systems (SAP/APO strongly preferred) and corresponding supply management experience required – CPG/FMCG experience strongly preferred
• Previous experience using statistical forecast methods and proven results from strong analytical work required
• APICS & Lean certification desired  Solid knowledge of forecasting as a part of the end to end supply chain and how it interrelates with Sales & Operations Planning, forecasting, production planning, logistics, product lifecycle management – specific customer forecasting knowledge is preferred
• Strong business insights, customer focus, collaboration skills with demonstrated ability to build trustful / collaborative relationships, create transparency and influence outcomes
• Advanced ability to facilitate multi-disciplinary team discussions, drive results, balance competing priorities, identify opportunity areas and develop strategies / tactics for improvement
• Able to meet deadlines and handle multiple projects simultaneously, with good time management and organizational skills
• A self-starter with the ability to operate independently and with a sense of urgency in a fast paced environment
• Solid verbal and written communication skills