Demand Planner at AFL in Duncan, SC

Demand Planner

AFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable, connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today, we manufacture thousands of products, generate an excess of $5B in revenue, and employ approximately 12,000 associates worldwide. At AFL, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual, investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth, let us connect you to your next career opportunity.

What We Offer:

• A hybrid in office schedule for qualifying employees
• Flexible time off policy
• 401K Company match (up to 4% - dollar for dollar)
• Professional development, training, and tuition reimbursement programs
• Excellent medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policy options
• Opportunities for career advancement with an industry leading company!

Job Summary

Demand Planners are responsible for supporting the demand planning process within the S&OP framework, culminating in the coordination and execution of the monthly Demand Review meeting to gain agreement on the latest 24-month rolling forecast. If the organization cannot reach consensus, recommends final decision.

• Achieve 95% forecast accuracy at the Finished Good (FG) level on a rolling 3-month basis
• Reduce forecast bias to +/- 2% across all product categories
• Ensure 100% compliance with data entry standards in Salesforce
• Maintain a 98% accuracy rate in the demand funnel

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the demand planning process within the S&OP framework, culminating in the coordination and execution of the monthly Demand Review meeting to gain agreement on the latest 24-month rolling forecast. If the organization cannot reach consensus, recommends final decision.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of statistical forecasting models for all product lines in $/units which become the basis for Latest Estimates, Operating Plans, and Financial projections.
• Collaborate with the Customer Operations Analyst in maintaining the demand funnel and ensuring data accuracy in Salesforce
• Work closely with the Global Planning function to communicate forecast, commercial drives, risks and resolves any questions regarding the demand forecast data.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to incorporate promotional activities and market intelligence into demand forecasts
• Analyze market trends, seasonality, and historical data to identify patterns and improve forecast accuracy
• Manage the consensus demand planning process, facilitating meetings and resolving conflicts between different functional areas
• Continuously monitor forecast accuracy and bias, implementing corrective actions as needed
• Provide regular reporting on key demand planning metrics to senior management
• Identify and manage risks related to demand volatility
• Drive continuous improvement in demand planning processes and systems
• Mentor and develop the Demand Analyst(s), ensuring their growth and performance

Decision Rights

• Forecast Approval:
  • Approval authority and accountability for demand forecasts before they are presented to senior management or incorporated into the S&OP process.
• Process Changes:
  • Can implement changes to the demand planning process within the team.
• Technology and Tools:
  • Recommends new demand planning technologies or tools for approval by VP Supply Chain.
• Stakeholder Management:
  • Decides how to manage relationships with key stakeholders, including which meetings to attend and how to present demand planning insights.

Key Competencies (Technical)

• Advanced proficiency in statistical forecasting techniques and software (e.g., SAS, R, Python)
• Strong understanding of supply chain management principles and S&OP processes
• Expertise in inventory management and optimization techniques
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
• Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables, macros, and VBA
• Knowledge of ERP systems and their integration with demand planning tools
• Proficiency in Salesforce CRM and its reporting capabilities

Key Competencies (Behavioral)

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and presentation abilities
• Leadership and team management skills
• Ability to mentor and develop direct reports
• Strong influencing skills to drive cross-functional collaboration
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy
• Adaptability and willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment
• Strategic thinking and ability to see the big picture

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Statistics, Engineering, or related field; MBA preferred
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in demand planning or related roles within manufacturing organizations, including at least 5 years in a manufacturing or supply chain role
• Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or other relevant professional certifications (e.g., APICS) preferred
• Demonstrated experience in building and leading a high-performance demand team with proven track record of developing team members
• Strong track record of improving forecast accuracy and inventory performance
• Experience with leading demand planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle Demantra, JDA)
• Proficiency in Salesforce CRM and its integration with demand planning processes

Working Conditions

• Normal office and manufacturing facility environment. Some travel may be required, but not frequent (<15%).