Junior Demand Planner (Sustainable Technology)

Rubicon is seeking a Junior Demand Planner in South Africa to optimize inventory levels and enhance supply chain efficiency in the renewable energy sector. Responsibilities include demand forecasting, inventory management, data analysis, and cross-functional communication. Candidates should have a relevant bachelor's degree and 1-3 years of experience in demand planning and inventory management. Proficiency in data analysis and demand planning tools is also required.
PURPOSE OF ROLE:
As a Junior Demand Planner in the dynamic and fast-paced renewable energy industry, your primary responsibility is to contribute significantly to the optimization of inventory levels, ensuring the timely availability of products and maintaining the efficiency of supply chain operations. Collaborating closely with both local and international suppliers, you will play a vital role in advancing the organisation's sustainability objectives through effective management of demand forecasting and inventory planning.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS:

Demand Forecasting:
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather market intelligence and historical data for accurate demand forecasting.
• Regularly monitor and evaluate the accuracy of demand forecasts, adjusting models and strategies as needed to improve accuracy.
• Utilize demand planning tools and software to analyse trends, seasonality, and other relevant factors affecting demand.

Inventory Management:
• Work closely with the Demand Planning Manager to ensure that inventory levels align with forecasted demand, avoiding excess or insufficient stock.
• Develop and maintain inventory models to ensure optimal stock levels across multiple warehouses.
• Implement strategies to minimize excess inventory and reduce stockouts, balancing cost-effectiveness and service levels.

Data Analysis and Reporting:
• Generate regular reports on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as forecast accuracy, inventory turns, and stock-out rates.
• Provide daily, weekly, and monthly reporting to various department heads.
• Analyse data to identify trends, anomalies, and areas for improvement in the demand planning process.

Cross-Functional Communication:
• Work closely with Procurement, Sales, and Marketing teams to align demand forecasts with business strategies, commercial trends, and other factors that can impact demand.
• Liaise with the Procurement Department to gather information on lead times, production schedules, and any potential supply chain disruptions.
• Communicate effectively with various stakeholders to provide insights into demand planning decisions and potential supply chain issues.

Continuous Improvement and Scenario Analysis:
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies to drive continuous improvement initiatives in demand planning processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Conduct scenario analysis to assess the impact of different variables on demand, enabling the development of contingency plans.

Process Documentation:
• Engage with supply chain stakeholders to capture and record the details of particular business processes, outlining the steps, inputs, outputs, and roles involved.

COMPETENCIES:

Computer Literacy:
• Windows and MS Office suite (Intermediate level).
• NetSuite (Advantageous).

Knowledge, Skills & Qualifications:
• Matric/NQF4 Level qualification is required
• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business or a related field is required
• 1-3 yrs relevant experience
• Demand Planning: Knowledge of demand forecasting techniques, statistical models, and the ability to interpret and analyse demand patterns.
• Inventory Management: Knowledge of inventory control principles, including safety stock, order quantity, and lead time management.
• Data Analysis: Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques to interpret large datasets and extract meaningful insights.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret data and make informed decisions.
• IT Proficiency: Proficient in using demand planning software, Excel, and other relevant tools for data analysis and reporting.
• Attention to Detail: Thorough attention to detail to ensure accuracy in demand forecasting and inventory management.
• Time Management: Effective time management skills to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing circumstances, market conditions, and emerging trends.
• Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication skills to articulate demand planning insights and collaborate with diverse teams.
• Teamwork: Collaborative mindset to work seamlessly with cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Problem-solving: Proactive problem-solving skills to address challenges in the demand planning and supply chain process.

What Will Help You Stand Out:
• Having a keen eye for detail and simplifying complexity.
• Being proactive and able to show initiative to foresee and resolve problems.
• Enjoying working with a cross-functional team and having an interest in solving challenges.
• Being known for delivering high-quality work while keeping your own team productive, fun, and happy!
• Proven ability to work to strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.