Demand Planning Executive

Job Code: 263/001/246
Industry: FMCG

Job Brief:
The Demand Planning Executive is responsible for ensuring accurate demand planning, inventory management, and timely purchase order execution across GCC markets, including Qatar, UAE, Oman, and KSA.
The role involves close coordination with cross-functional teams to maintain optimal stock availability, minimize wastage, and improve overall supply chain efficiency. This position also manages inventory shuffling based on slow-moving and non-moving product trends and oversees import and export activities for GCC operations while ensuring strict compliance with supply chain processes.

Job Responsibilities:
1. Demand Planning

• Gather and analyze sales and market data to prepare accurate demand forecasts.
• Coordinate with Sales, Brand Managers, and the Supply Chain team to align forecasts with business objectives.
• Proactively adjust forecasts based on market changes, promotions, and updated sales inputs.

2. Inventory Management

• Monitor stock levels to ensure product availability and optimal stock rotation.
• Maintain balanced inventory levels to meet demand while avoiding overstocking or shortages.
• Track fast-moving, slow-moving, and near-expiry items and recommend corrective actions.

3. Order Management

• Prepare and validate Purchase Requisitions (PRs) and Purchase Orders (POs) in line with demand forecasts and inventory data.
• Liaise with suppliers to confirm order details and track shipments until delivery.
• Ensure strict follow-up on ETAs and promptly resolve any delays.

4. Wastage Control

• Implement effective stock control measures to minimize product wastage.
• Report discrepancies related to expiry, damages, or handling issues.
• Coordinate with warehouse and operations teams to ensure proper storage and handling practices.

5. Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare regular reports on stock status, overstock situations, demand forecasts, inventory turnover, and wastage.
• Maintain performance dashboards for management review.
• Track and report on order fulfillment rates, discrepancies, and missed ETAs.

6. Cross-Functional Coordination

• Collaborate with Sales, Brand Managers, Procurement, Warehouse, and Country Managers to ensure smooth supply chain operations.
• Follow up on supply chain disruptions and implement recovery measures.
• Coordinate timely order placements and stock adjustments based on market needs.

7. Process Compliance & Improvement

• Ensure PRs and POs use the correct Purchasing Unit of Measurement (UOM), such as CASE instead of EACH, to avoid ordering errors.
• Refer to and comply with the Import Checklist, ensuring all shipment details (Incoterm, mode of transport, payment terms, ETA, weights, pallets, temperature requirements) are included.
• Maintain a unified email subject line format and coding structure as advised.
• Ensure Food and Non-Food items are never mixed within the same order.
• Proofread all POs before sending them to suppliers.
• Keep the PR–PO Tracking Sheet updated at all times.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and recommend best practices.

8. Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance

• Ensure a safe and healthy working environment by complying with the organization’s Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) systems and policies.