Planning Manager

Associate Manager, Demand Planning Work Flexibility: Hybrid The Associate Manager – Demand Planning CoE is responsible for driving statistical forecasting excellence across regions by leveraging advanced analytics, standardized processes, and enterprise demand planning systems. Based in India, this role operates as part of the global Demand Planning Center of Excellence and works extensively with stakeholders across the US, Europe, Canada, and APAC. The role combines hands‑on forecasting expertise, cross‑regional collaboration, and thought leadership to improve forecast accuracy, reduce bias, and strengthen demand signals that support enterprise‑level decision making. The associate manager will partner closely with regional demand planners, central forecasting teams, IT, analytics, and supply chain stakeholders to continuously enhance forecasting capability and maturity. Key Areas of Responsibility: Forecasting & Advanced Analytics Develop, maintain, and continuously improve high‑quality statistical demand forecasts for assigned regions using enterprise demand planning systems. Analyze large and complex datasets to identify trends, seasonality, demand drivers, forecast risks, and opportunities. Perform root‑cause analysis on forecast accuracy, bias, and volatility, linking plan vs. actuals to drive corrective actions. Design and deliver forecast simulations, scenario planning, and risk assessments to support proactive decision‑making. Independently investigate and resolve demand signal anomalies and forecast exceptions. CoE Leadership & Process Excellence Act as a subject matter expert within the Demand Planning CoE, promoting statistical best practices, standardization, and governance. Partner with regional and in‑country demand planners to distinguish true statistical signal versus value‑added market intelligence. Lead or contribute to cross‑functional and cross‑regional initiatives focused on improving demand planning processes, KPIs, and outcomes. Collaborate with IT and Analytics teams to support the demand planning technology roadmap, including automation, advanced analytics, and AI/ML‑enabled capabilities. Support process mapping, simplification, and continuous improvement initiatives across demand planning and S&OP / IBP processes. Stakeholder Management & Communication Build strong working relationships with stakeholders across commercial, marketing, supply chain, finance, and analytics teams globally. Communicate forecast insights, risks, and recommendations clearly to senior and executive leadership. Influence adoption of global standards, analytics‑driven decision making, and disciplined forecasting practices across regions. Guide regional teams on demand overrides to ensure adjustments are data‑driven, transparent, and value‑adding. People Leadership & Capability Building Mentor and coach demand planners or analysts within the CoE; manage team members as required. Build forecasting, analytics, and business acumen capability within the team. Foster a culture of innovation, structured problem solving, and continuous learning. Performance & Governance Deliver against forecasting KPIs (accuracy, bias, stability) in alignment with enterprise and supply chain objectives. Ensure adherence to demand planning governance, data quality standards, and global processes. Demonstrate ownership, creativity, and sound judgment in problem solving, escalation, and decision support. What you need: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Statistics, Economics, Business, Data Analytics, or a related field. 8–10 years of progressive experience in demand planning, forecasting, supply chain analytics, or related roles. Hands‑on experience with enterprise demand planning or forecasting systems. Strong understanding of S&OP / Integrated Business Planning processes. Proven experience working with large, diverse product portfolios; medical devices or regulated industries preferred. Experience with advanced analytics, automation, or SQL is a plus. Ability to work effectively with global stakeholders across time zones (US, Europe, Canada, APAC). Strong foundation in statistical forecasting concepts, analytics, and data interpretation. Travel Percentage: 10% Experience Level Mid Level