We are seeking an accomplished and highly analytical Director of Demand Planning to lead the demand planning function across our portfolio of brands. The Director of Demand Planning will be responsible for developing and implementing a data-driven approach to demand forecasting, leveraging advanced analytics, statistical modeling, and related tools to optimize inventory levels and drive data-based decision-making for each brand within the portfolio. Experience in the footwear or apparel industry is preferred. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in demand planning, along with expertise in data analysis and utilizing technology to enhance demand forecasting accuracy and supply chain efficiency. This key leadership role will require a strong background in inventory planning and management, with a track record of successfully building and leading planning teams.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and implementation of a data-driven demand forecasting strategy for each brand within the portfolio, utilizing statistical modeling, machine learning, and other advanced analytics techniques.
• Utilize historical sales data, market trends, and customer insights to create accurate and reliable demand forecasts for each brand’s product categories.
• Collaborate with the Sales, Marketing, and Product Development teams of each brand to gather relevant data and insights for demand forecasting.
• Establish and maintain a demand planning process that incorporates data integration from various sources for each brand, ensuring data accuracy and consistency.
• Analyze demand variance and performance data for each brand to understand demand patterns and trends, driving continuous improvement in forecasting accuracy.
• Implement inventory optimization models and algorithms for each brand to determine optimal stock levels, safety stock, and reorder points.
• Develop scenario modeling and simulation tools to assess the impact of various market scenarios on demand and inventory levels for each brand.
• Collaborate with the Sales and Marketing teams to understand promotional activities and their potential impact on demand and inventory levels.
• Collaborate with the Production team to share demand forecasts and align procurement strategies, optimizing lead times and ensuring on-time product availability for each brand.
• Oversee the integration of demand planning data for each brand into the company’s Erp system and/or other relevant platforms.
• Identify and communicate potential inventory risks and opportunities to senior management, providing recommendations for inventory optimization.
• Stay updated with industry trends, demand planning best practices, and technological advancements to drive continuous improvement.
• Lead and mentor the demand planning teams for each brand, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making and continuous learning.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Supply Chain Management, Business Analytics, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
• Proven experience as a Director of Demand Planning or a similar senior leadership role within the footwear or apparel industry, with a strong track record of successful demand forecasting and a data-driven approach.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully building and leading inventory planning teams.
• Knowledge of supply chain principles and best practices, including inventory optimization, demand planning, and distribution.
• Expertise in data analysis and modeling using programming languages such as Python or R, and proficiency in relevant tools like Microsoft Excel and Sql.
• Familiarity with demand planning software and enterprise resource planning (Erp) systems (e.g., Infor, BlueCherry, A2000, Momentis).
• Familiarity with business intelligence tools (e.g., Tableau, Power Bi) for data visualization and reporting.
• Experience in working with large datasets, data mining, and data integration from various sources.
• Strong statistical and quantitative analysis skills, with experience in time series analysis, regression analysis, and other demand forecasting methodologies.
• Knowledge of machine learning algorithms and their application in demand forecasting is a plus.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and brand stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets and present actionable insights to stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, with the ability to lead and inspire demand planning teams for each brand.
• Proven track record of driving results and achieving forecasting accuracy through a data-driven approach to demand planning.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to resolving inventory-related challenges.
• Understanding of global supply chain dynamics and experience working with international suppliers is a plus.

Technical Proficiency:​The ideal candidate will have experience using related software and applications such as:

• Erp systems (Infor, Momentis, BlueCherry, A2000)
• Python and R
• Google Analytics
• Tableau/Power Bi
• Advanced Excel

As the Director of Demand Planning for our portfolio of brands, you will play a pivotal role in utilizing data and advanced analytics to drive accurate demand forecasting, optimize inventory levels, and enhance supply chain efficiency for each brand within our company. Experience in the footwear or apparel industry is preferred. If you possess a proven track record in demand planning and data-driven decision-making, along with expertise in advanced analytics tools, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity to lead our dynamic demand planning teams across our brand portfolio.