Demand Planning Manager

We are seeking a strategic and analytical Demand Planning Manager to lead SKU-level forecasting and drive inventory accuracy across a multi-channel business, including direct-to-consumer (DTC), e-commerce marketplaces, wholesale, and key retail accounts. This role is responsible for building and refining forecast models using historical data, market trends, and cross-functional input to anticipate demand shifts driven by marketing campaigns, product launches, and seasonality. The Demand Planning Manager will serve as the central voice of demand in planning conversations, translating insights into actionable scenarios that support inventory optimization and retail readiness.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain accurate SKU-level demand forecasts using historical data, seasonality, promotions, and sales channel inputs.
• Enhance forecasting capabilities through best practices, improved statistical models, and the integration of analytics and market insights.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, Product, and Operations teams to incorporate inputs for demand variability across DTC, marketplaces, wholesale, and emerging retail accounts.
• Translate marketing initiatives, product launches, and promotional activities into proactive demand adjustments.
• Build scalable forecast models for new product introductions and retail rollouts.
• Prepare demand scenarios to support retail sell-through and seasonal peaks (e.g., Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Holidays).
• Act as the primary voice of demand in planning discussions, clearly communicating risks, opportunities, and forecast assumptions.
• Generate monthly and quarterly demand accuracy reports, identifying variances and root causes.

Qualifications:

• Extensive experience in demand planning, forecasting, or integrated business planning within the consumer goods industry.
• Proven track record of achieving results through detailed forecasting and effective cross-functional collaboration.
• Experience in omni-channel planning, with an understanding of the dynamics across DTC, marketplaces, and traditional retail.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret large datasets, identify trends, and drive strategic decisions.
• Proficiency in Excel (e.g., VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, advanced formulas); experience with demand planning tools and ERP systems is a plus.
• Excellent quantitative and analytical capabilities, with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Strong interpersonal and influencing skills; able to build trust and align stakeholders across functions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with a high degree of autonomy.