Planning Manager - D2C Segment - Retail/Consumer Goods

Job Overview:- We are actively seeking a skilled Planning Manager to enhance our demand & supply operations by optimizing inventory planning, ensuring stock availability during high-demand seasons, and managing product lifecycle effectively. - The ideal candidate will be adept at using advanced Excel, managing warehouse (WH) inventory, and driving key metrics like Order Fill Rate for B2B and Category-wise Stock in Hand (SIH). - They will also oversee the liquidation of slow-moving or clearance stock to maintain a healthy inventory turnover. Key Responsibilities:- Demand Forecasting & Analysis: Work with sales and marketing teams to analyze historical sales data and integrate commercial insights for accurate demand forecasting. - Inventory Planning & Optimization: Utilize advanced Excel for inventory analysis, planning, and tracking to meet demand without overstocking or stockouts. - Seasonal Stock Management: Ensure optimal inventory levels during high-demand and festive seasons to prevent stockouts and capitalize on sales opportunities. - WH Inventory Planning & Management: Manage warehouse inventory efficiently, including product and packaging materials, to meet forecasted demands while minimizing excess stock. - Liquidation of Slow-Moving/Obsolete Stock: Identify, manage, and drive strategies for the timely liquidation of bad, slow-moving, or clearance stock to improve inventory health and cash flow. - Order Fill Rate (B2B): Monitor and optimize Order Fill Rate for B2B channels, ensuring high service levels and timely fulfillment. - Category-wise Stock in Hand (SIH): Maintain detailed oversight of stock in hand by category, including both products and packaging, to support inventory accuracy and better forecasting. - S&OP Coordination: Conduct monthly S&OP meetings, ensuring effective communication of planning updates to supply and production teams. - Forecast Accuracy & Bias Management: Track forecast accuracy and bias metrics at the national level, implementing improvements as needed. Requirements:- Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in Supply Chain, Demand Planning, or Inventory Management, preferably in retail or consumer goods. - Advanced Excel Proficiency: Strong command of advanced Excel functions for data analysis, inventory tracking, and forecasting. - Inventory Management Expertise: In-depth knowledge of inventory management practices, particularly in warehouse environments. - Analytical Skills: Ability to synthesize data, identify trends, and derive actionable insights to optimize inventory performance. - Cross-Functional Collaboration: Demonstrated experience in leading cross-functional coordination with sales, marketing, and supply chain teams. - Proactive Problem-Solving: Initiative and foresight to anticipate changes, identify opportunities, and mitigate risks. - S&OP Process Knowledge: Familiarity with S&OP processes and experience managing demand planning cycles. Preferred Qualifications:- Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Management, or related fields. - Industry Knowledge: Experience in retail or consumer goods industry is highly desirable.