Demand Planner jobs
In any industry, ensuring supply meets demand is essential for business success.
The role of a demand planner is to analyse market trends, buying statistics and other indicators and create strategies to make sure that all orders are fulfilled on time and that waste is minimised.
For example, seasonal changes and special occasions could lead to an increase in business - and therefore an increase in demand. Meanwhile, if the company has started a new advertising campaign or is somehow enhancing its offering, production levels may also need to be increased.
This is why demand planners will usually consult a variety of statistics and trend forecasts, as well liaise with other departments internally, such as the sales and marketing teams, account managers and those in logistics and procurement positions.
The skills required
Demand planner roles will vary from company to company, but in general, candidates for this type of job should have an ability to think analytically, while good commercial awareness and a drive to make improvements to the existing sales and operating planning process (S&OP) are also essential.
Excellent numeracy and communication skills are a must. It’s likely that you will need to report your findings to directors and stakeholders, so you should also be comfortable making presentations.
In addition, you should be computer literate and comfortable using spreadsheets and database programs, as well as the Microsoft Office suite.
Demand Planner Jobs in the West Midlands
Comprising seven metropolitan boroughs - the city of Birmingham, the City of Coventry, Dudley, Solihull, Sandwell, Walsall and the City of Wolverhampton, the West Midlands is an English county with plenty of opportunities for those seeking Demand Planner vacancies.
Throughout history, the region has been known for its commerce and industry. During the Middle Ages, wool and cloth manufacture brought a significant amount of wealth to the West Midlands, particularly in Coventry.
By the 1700s, metalworking, small arms manufacture and mining were all important for the local economy, and this expanded to include bicycle building during the Industrial Revolution and beyond. In addition, two large banks - Lloyds and Midlands Bank (which later became HSBC) were both founded in the region during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Fast forward to today and the West Midlands is thriving. Birmingham, which vies with Manchester for the title of Britain's second city, has been called one of the best places in the country to have a business and it seems that big companies agree.
From finance and media, to manufacturing, engineering, tourism, retail and the service sector, there are many well-known organisations with headquarters or other large facilities in the region - including Cooks the Bakery, Marston's, Chubb Locks and Carillion.
Jaguar, Land Rover and MG cars are also manufactured in the West Midlands, along with London's iconic black taxis.
Popular locations
Find Demand Planner roles with Cast UK
To find out how Cast UK can help you find your next role as a demand planner, contact us today.
Our team of friendly recruitment consultants have extensive experience in the procurement, logistics and supply chain fields, and have worked in the industry themselves.
This means they know what it takes to succeed in these jobs and they can provide the advice and assistance you need to find a vacancy that matches your particular skills, qualifications and objectives.
Cast UK works with clients and candidates in locations across the country to match the best talent to every role. To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Demand Planner for your business or find you a job as a Demand Planner then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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