Demand Planner - Pharmaceutical Supply Chain

About the role

A client in the pharmaceutical industry in Western Cape, South Africa, 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 contributes to achieving sales targets, keeping stock levels optimal 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 market and competitive intelligence.
• Collaborate across Sales, Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain, IT, Regulatory and Quality Assurance, as well as with external suppliers.

Required profile

• 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.
• Experience with demand planning software.
• Knowledge of demand planning systems, technical methods and frameworks.

Required skills

• Strong working knowledge of analytics and numerics; advanced Microsoft Excel skills are essential.
• Strong numerical, analytical and decision-making skills.
• Ability to interpret demand and inventory data, recognise risks and opportunities and turn insights into accurate forecasts.
• Effective cross-functional collaboration and sound decision-making.