Demand Planning Manager jobs
Planning demand and acting upon it is the holy grail of supply chain management. It will involve analysis of past demand combined with predictions of future events to come up with figures on which to base your own supply needs so as not to let down your customers. Crack the demand planning problem and you’re on your way to efficiency, satisfied customers and greater profitability.
The demand planning manager will oversee a team of analysts and planners to make sure customers’ demands are met seamlessly such that your supply operation runs at its optimum efficiency. It would be easy to continually supply a customer with goods, but if they are not selling them they will run out of space. On the other hand, supplying one unit every time one is sold is sure to keep their shelves stocked, but it is hugely inefficient. Somewhere in between the two is the sweet spot, and the demand planning manager will devote all his or her time to finding it.
The job will involve instructing analysts to research specific elements of your supply and customers’ predicted demand to identify potential issues that could lead to problems. The sooner such issues are found, the better the chances of arranging an efficient supply.
The skills required
Overseeing a team of planners and analysts requires a strong personality and great interpersonal and communication skills. You’ll not only be giving instruction and guidance to those you’re overseeing, but also taking, interpreting and implementing instructions from senior management.
You will be expected to fully understand the software solutions used by the team, and there could be some training, or at least organising training, as part of the job. Many companies will have their own systems, which can be quite complex, especially when a CPFR system is used.
Being the sort of person who is in touch with current events and follows the news and other media is a great help for being a planner, too. Unusual events that can lead to non-typical purchasing patterns can cause serious supply chain problems, but keeping in touch with current affairs and trends can pay dividends if it helps predict them.
Demand Planning Manager Jobs in Southampton
Southampton has been one of Britain’s most important ports since at least Roman times, and to this day is a major container port (the second largest in the country after Felixstowe) and ferry terminal serving the Isle of Wight and Europe, as well as being the UK’s busiest cruise terminal.
It was from Southampton that Titanic sailed on her fateful journey, although she was built in Belfast and registered in Liverpool. The city has a more celebrated association with transport, however; the Supermarine Spitfire was built near the city and performed its maiden test flight on what was to become the city’s airport. The port’s military and logistical significance did make it a key target for German bombs during World War II, and the city, just across the Channel from occupied France, was badly hit.
The city has admirable links with the logistics industry. It is home to Ordnance Survey, an essential element in the industry, especially in the pre-SatNav days; Carnival Cruises and Associated British Ports also have important stations here. The city has breadth and depth that makes it a good place for Demand Planning Manager job opportunities.
Popular locations
Cast UK’s supply chain opportunities
People approach Cast UK for many reasons, whether seeking more job fulfilment or simply relocating for personal reasons, so it’s good to know that we always have the complete range of positions available nationwide. Please see what’s available in your region and if you’ve seen something you’re interested in, do get in touch – whether it’s today or tomorrow, we might have the ideal position for you.
Cast UK’s founder members and consultants all come from the logistics, procurement and supply chain sectors, so we know what employers and candidates are looking for in their staff and careers respectively. Cast UK is growing in this part of the UK recruitment industry, mainly because these are the only sectors we deal with, which means that many employers come to us first to create a candidate shortlist because they know we’re tightly focused on delivering the best people to them.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Demand Planning Manager for your business or find you a job as a Demand Planning Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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