Sr. Manager, Strategic Forecasting

Job Description

We are looking for a team member within strategic forecasting team based out of Pune. Robust forecasting is a priority for businesses, as the product potential has major implications to a wide range of disciplines. While forecasting of realistic potential can be arrived through both qualitative and quantitative methods, the challenge lies in selecting and deploying the right methodology. Thus, it is essential to have someone who understands and aspires to implement advanced analytics techniques such as Monte Carlo simulations, agent-based modeling, conjoint frameworks, NLP, clustering etc. within forecasting vertical.

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Responsible for conceptualizing and delivering forecasts and analytical solutions, using both strategic as well as statistical techniques

• Drive continuous enhancements to evolve the existing forecasting capabilities in terms of value-add, risk/ opportunity/uncertainty - identify and elevate key forecasting levers/insights/findings to inform decision making

• Collaborate across stakeholders – should be replaced with "our Research & Development Division", Human Health, Finance, Research, Country, and senior leadership – to build and robust assumptions, ensuring forecast accuracy improves over time to support decision making

• Drive innovation and automation to bring in robustness and efficiency gains in forecasting/process; incorporate best-in-class statistical forecasting methods to improve the accuracy

• Communicate effectively across stakeholders and proactively identify and resolve conflicts by engaging with relevant stakeholders

• Responsible for managing team and delivery of forecasts in a timely manner with allocated resources

• Determine the optimal method for forecasting, considering the context of the forecast, availability of data, the degree of accuracy desired, and the timeline available

• Contribute in evolving our offerings through standardization/ automation of various offerings, models and processes

• Participate in selection, talent development and trainings of our company's employees

Qualification and skills:

• Engineering / Management / Pharma post-graduates with 8+ years of experience in the relevant roles; with at least 8+ years of experience in pharmaceutical strategic forecasting or analytics

• Demonstrated leadership and management in driving innovation and automation leveraging advanced statistical and analytical techniques (expertise in Spotfire will be added advantage)

• Proven ability to work collaboratively across large and diverse functions and stakeholders

• Ability to manage ambiguous environments, and to adapt to changing needs of business

• Strong analytical skills; an aptitude for problem solving and strategic thinking

• Hands on experience on Monte Carlo simulations and range forecasting

• Exposure/sound understanding of advanced modeling techniques like Agent based and dynamic transmission model

• Ability to synthesize complex information into clear and actionable insights

• Proven ability to communicate effectively across all levels of stakeholders

• Solid understanding of pharmaceutical development, manufacturing, supply chain and marketing functions

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully 
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company.  No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails. 

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship:

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Hybrid

Shift:

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s):

Required Skills:

Business Analysis, Conflict Resolution, Data Forecasting, Financial Forecasting, Forecast Accuracy, Forecasting Models, Forecast Management, Foster Innovation, Group Decision Making, Marketing, Numerical Analysis, Pharmaceutical Development, Stakeholder Engagement, Stakeholder Relationship Management, Strategic Forecasting, Strategic Planning, Waterfall Model

Preferred Skills:

Job Posting End Date:

08/31/2025

*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

Requisition ID:R359823

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