Demand Planner
Supply Chain
Western Cape – South Africa
Our client in the pharmaceutical industry is looking for a Demand Planner to support the development and maintenance of accurate forecast models. Using business intelligence and insights from Sales, Marketing, Finance and Supply Chain, the role will contribute to achieving sales targets, maintaining optimum stock levels and minimising operating costs.
Key Responsibilities
-
Develop and manage demand forecasts, analyse trends and maintain accurate forecasting data and models.
-
Review historical sales, market trends, seasonality, promotions, inventory levels and other demand drivers to improve forecast accuracy.
-
Develop and monitor forecasting KPIs and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
-
Lead forecast and inventory planning discussions with relevant functional stakeholders.
-
Develop weekly and monthly forecasting dashboards and provide inventory and forecast performance reporting.
-
Monitor inventory and safety stock levels to support product availability and minimise stock-out risks.
-
Investigate significant forecast variances and refine forecasts based on updated sales and marketing assumptions.
-
Maintain demand planning systems, processes, documentation and standard operating procedures.
-
Manage rolling forecast updates and incorporate relevant market and competitive intelligence.
-
Collaborate across Sales, Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain, IT, Regulatory and Quality Assurance, as well as with external suppliers.
Minimum Requirements
-
Relevant tertiary Degree or Diploma in Business, Finance, Industrial Engineering or Logistics Management.
-
Minimum 3 years’ relevant experience.
-
Experience in forecasting with knowledge of forecasting methods.
-
Strong working knowledge of analytics and numerics.
-
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills are essential.
-
Experience with demand planning software.
-
Strong numerical, analytical and decision-making skills.
-
Knowledge of demand planning systems, technical methods and frameworks.
The ideal candidate will bring strong analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret demand and inventory data, recognise risks and opportunities, and turn insights into accurate forecasts. The role also calls for effective cross-functional collaboration and sound decision-making, along with the ability to thoughtfully balance stock availability, forecast accuracy and evolving business requirements. If you are an experienced Demand Planner who would welcome the opportunity to support effective forecasting, inventory optimisation and supply chain performance within the pharmaceutical industry, we invite you to apply using the link below.