SA Demand Planner & Buyer

About the role

This role supports the organisation by improving demand forecasts and order fulfilment while reducing ordering errors. It works with stakeholders to give strategic input on optimal order quantities and continuously improves order forecast models. It also covers a key product portfolio within the Henry Schein group.

Key responsibilities

• Demand planning (60%): report daily on order fill rates; extract reports from the Navision system to refresh the re-order templates used by the department, rolling them over each month
• Work with the EU purchasing team on re-order inputs, processes and metrics, and consider moving re-ordering onto Navision or other platforms
• Review draft purchase orders from buyers against re-order spreadsheets, identify trends and patterns, and take part in monthly S&OP meetings
• Liaise with sales and marketing on projections, design and implement solutions to improve forecast accuracy, and develop and maintain the forecast model
• Support management with risk assessments and mitigation, and create policies and procedures for demand planning and order placement
• Buying (40%): review re-order worksheets for inter-company and HS Brand vendors, draft purchase orders and order plans, and submit approved POs to suppliers after line manager approval
• Update order pricing, quantities and ETAs according to supplier confirmations, liaise with logistics on large orders not shipped by UPS, and update sales and marketing on ETAs, especially for out-of-stock products
• Run monthly forecast reviews with the Henry Schein Brands manager and address demand issues promptly

Required profile

• Experience in a team environment, working with internal and external partners
• Preferred bachelor's degree (or higher) in a procurement or supply chain field
• Preferred 5 years of experience in a supply chain environment
• Minimum Matric exemption certificate

Required skills

• Advanced Excel skills (macros an advantage)
• Knowledge of advanced forecasting techniques
• Able to handle large sets of data, work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Querying, reporting and presentation skills