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Demand Planning Executive

Location: Dubai
Salary: Up to AED 10,000
Job Code: 263/001/374
Industry: Food Distribution

Job Brief:

We are hiring for a Demand Planning Executive job in Dubai to support our client’s supply chain and forecasting operations within the food distribution industry.

The role is responsible for ensuring accurate demand forecasting, effective inventory management, and timely execution of purchase orders across multiple GCC markets, including Qatar, UAE, Oman, and KSA.

Job Responsibilities:

Demand Planning
  • Gather and analyze sales data, market trends, and historical performance to develop accurate demand forecasts.
  • Coordinate closely with Sales, Brand Managers, and Supply Chain teams to align demand forecasts with business objectives and sales strategies.
  • Proactively adjust forecasts based on changing market conditions, promotions, seasonal demand, and updated sales inputs.

Inventory Management
  • Monitor stock levels across markets to ensure continuous product availability and proper stock rotation.
  • Maintain balanced inventory levels to meet demand requirements while minimizing risks of overstocking or stock shortages.
  • Track fast-moving, slow-moving, and near-expiry inventory and recommend corrective actions to optimize stock utilization.

Order Management
  • Prepare and validate Purchase Requisitions (PRs) and Purchase Orders (POs) based on demand forecasts and inventory requirements.
  • Liaise with suppliers to confirm order specifications, quantities, delivery schedules, and shipment details.
  • Monitor shipments closely and ensure strict follow-up on Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA), resolving delays or supply issues promptly.

Wastage Control
  • Implement inventory control measures to reduce product wastage and maintain product quality.
  • Identify and report discrepancies related to expiry, damages, or handling issues.
  • Coordinate with warehouse and operations teams to ensure proper storage, handling, and inventory management practices.

Reporting & Analysis
  • Prepare periodic reports covering stock status, demand forecasts, inventory turnover, overstock situations, and wastage trends.
  • Maintain dashboards and operational reports for management review and decision-making.
  • Track order fulfillment rates, shipment discrepancies, and missed ETAs, providing insights for operational improvements.

Cross-Functional Coordination
  • Collaborate with Sales teams, Brand Managers, Procurement, Warehouse operations, and Country Managers to ensure smooth supply chain execution.
  • Follow up on supply chain disruptions and support the implementation of recovery measures.
  • Coordinate timely order placements and stock adjustments to meet market demand.

Process Compliance & Improvement
  • Ensure Purchase Requisitions and Purchase Orders use the correct Purchasing Unit of Measurement (UOM), such as CASE instead of EACH, to prevent ordering errors.
  • Refer to and comply with the Import Checklist, ensuring all critical shipment details, including Incoterms, mode of transport, payment terms, ETA, weight, pallets, and temperature requirements are accurately captured.
  • Maintain standardized email subject line formats and coding structures as advised by internal processes.
  • Ensure Food and Non-Food items are never combined within the same purchase order.
  • Proofread all Purchase Orders before sending them to suppliers to ensure accuracy.
  • Maintain and regularly update the PR-PO Tracking Sheet.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and recommend best practices to enhance operational efficiency.

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 guidelines.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

  • Accuracy of demand forecasts.
  • Timely placement of purchase orders and adherence to ETAs.
  • Inventory turnover rate and reduction in wastage.
  • Maintenance of stock levels aligned with the agreed supply period to ensure availability while preventing overstocking.
  • Accuracy of PR and PO data entry, including compliance with Unit of Measurement (UOM) standards.
  • Timeliness and completeness of operational reports.
  • Compliance with import procedures and order management protocols.

Skills and Competencies:


  • Analytical Thinking: Ability to evaluate supply chain processes and improve operational efficiency.
  • Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in purchase orders, shipping documents, and inventory records.
  • Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers and freight forwarders to optimize costs.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to resolving logistical challenges and shipment delays.
  • Communication and Collaboration: Strong coordination with suppliers, freight forwarders, and internal departments.
  • Time Management: Ability to manage multiple shipments and operational tasks within strict deadlines.
  • ERP Systems Proficiency: Experience using ERP systems such as Oracle or similar supply chain management platforms.
  • Regulatory Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with import/export regulations and HACCP standards.

Job Requirements:

  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in demand planning, preferably within food distribution or FMCG supply chains.
  • Strong analytical capabilities with the ability to assess and optimize supply chain processes.
  • Proficiency in ERP systems such as Oracle or similar supply chain management software.
  • Knowledge of import/export regulations and international trade procedures.
  • Strong coordination, communication, and problem-solving skills.
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