Demand Planner

Demand planners work within various departments of an organization to perform revenue forecasting, inventory level alignment based on seasonal demands, material planning, and procurement forecasting. They also use an operational supply chain management (SCM) process to develop reliable forecasts.Demand planners may need to work with various departments to monitor inventory and ensure the efficiency of supply-chain initiatives. A bachelor's degree or higher in business administration, computer science, or a related field and relevant work experience are generally required for this position, and they must also be able to use various software and computer applications, such as SAP, ECC, SAS, and APO and Microsoft Office programs. They may report to a procurement manager, product manager, or sales manager depending on the employer.Strong communication and presentation skills are important in this position, and demand planners should also be detail-oriented and able to work independently as well as in a team environment. They must pay close attention to market trends when developing forecasts, and some may read relevant professional journals or attend training classes or workshops to keep their skills up-to-date.

As a Demand Planner with 9+ years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop accurate demand forecasts and inventory plans that meet customer demands and optimize supply chain efficiency.
• Analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and customer insights to identify demand patterns and forecast future product demand with precision.
• Monitoring and adjusting inventory levels to ensure optimal stock availability while minimizing excess or obsolete inventory.
• Conducting regular demand planning meetings with stakeholders to review forecast accuracy, address supply chain issues, and develop strategies for improving forecast accuracy and supply chain performance.

For a Demand Planner, the following qualifications are required:

• Strong analytical skills to analyze sales data, market trends, and historical demand patterns to accurately forecast demand for products or services.
• Proficiency in using demand planning software and advanced Excel functions to create and maintain demand forecasts, inventory plans, and production schedules.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to effectively interact with sales, marketing, production, and supply chain teams to ensure alignment and achieve demand planning objectives.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on accuracy and ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines and adapt to changing business requirements.

The Demand Planner job role in Australia, with 9+ years of experience, offers professionals several alternative career paths to consider. Here are four options worth exploring:

• Supply Chain Manager: A role that involves overseeing the entire supply chain process, from procurement to delivery, to ensure efficient operations and timely product availability.
• Sales and Operations Planning Manager: A position focused on aligning sales forecasts with operational plans, optimizing inventory levels, and coordinating cross-functional teams to meet customer demand.
• Inventory Manager: A role dedicated to optimizing inventory levels, minimizing carrying costs, and implementing inventory control strategies to improve operational efficiency.
• Logistics Manager: A position that entails managing transportation, warehousing, and distribution activities to ensure smooth and cost-effective movement of goods throughout the supply chain.

The demand planner job role in Australia is expected to witness significant growth in the market. Over the past ten years, there has been a consistent increase in demand for professionals in this field. According to Google data, this trend is projected to continue in the future. The job market for demand planners is expected to expand, offering numerous employment opportunities. With its vital role in managing supply chain efficiency and meeting consumer demands, companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of this position. Therefore, individuals pursuing a career as a demand planner can anticipate a promising job outlook in Australia.