1. Plan Development:

• Study all brand-related information, including product range, groups, key products, growth patterns, and seasonality.
• Collect and analyze purchase performance data from the past 2–3 years, including value, volume, ordering cycles, replenishment lead times, DSI (Days Sales of Inventory), and pricing factors.
• Gather sales performance data for the same period, analyzing macro trends, product groups, key products, and SKU seasonality in value and volume.
• Align with sales leadership to determine growth targets based on market developments and historical trends.
• Develop brand forecasts at macro, product group, and key product levels, presenting them by value and volume.
• Create detailed purchase plans, accounting for ordering cycles and replenishment lead times.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing heads to finalize plans, engaging suppliers or brand owners as needed for input.
• Release finalized plans to suppliers or upload them to supplier portals.

2. Plan Execution:

• Communicate the finalized plan to internal teams, including supply chain, finance, and related departments.
• Prepare yearly purchase order (PO) schedules, detailing pick-up or vessel booking timelines.
• Monitor monthly sales performance and inventory levels by SKU, ensuring adherence to agreed DSI levels.
• Schedule and lead regular cycle forecast meetings with sales and marketing for plan reviews and adjustments.
• Address availability issues with sales and marketing teams, identifying potential replacements as necessary.
• Ensure alignment among suppliers, sales, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless plan execution and resolve deviations promptly.

3. System Development:

• Identify areas for improvement in demand planning processes and propose actionable recommendations.
• Analyze historical sales data and future plans to continuously enhance demand forecast accuracy.
• Evaluate and recommend demand planning software to improve data analysis and decision-making.
• Develop and maintain tools, reports, and analytics to drive improvements in demand planning effectiveness.
• Ensure the integration and optimal utilization of planning systems across functions.

4. Team Development:

• Design and deliver training programs to enhance the skills and capabilities of the demand planning team.
• Direct the analytics team, providing clear direction and oversight.
• Set yearly SMART objectives aligned with organizational goals and review team KPIs regularly.
• Conduct performance reviews, appraisals, and cycle performance assessments for team members.
• Mentor and develop team members to meet current and future business needs.