Supply Chain – Demand Planning, Analytics and Material Master

Role Summary:

As the Demand Planning Team Leader, you will lead the demand forecasting, material master data management, and MIS reporting functions to ensure accurate demand planning and inventory optimization across our retail supply chain. You will work closely with sales, marketing, supply, and distribution teams to drive forecast accuracy, manage SKU data integrity, and support the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process. You will also lead and develop a small team to support supply chain excellence in a dynamic, high-growth paint industry environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the demand planning process, reviewing historical sales trends and sales drivers to generate accurate demand forecasts in a dynamic market.
• Own and continuously improve the forecast accuracy KPI and lead consensus-building meetings with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Review and influence location-level SKU sales plans within the Planning Module to ensure alignment with market realities.
• Engage proactively with Sales and Marketing teams to align on demand plans and update forecast data as needed.
• Drive the S&OP and consensus planning processes to finalize firm demand numbers, enabling supply chain responsiveness.
• Participate in New Product Introduction (NPI) processes from the SCM perspective, coordinating with supply, distribution, and material master teams.
• Own and maintain Material Master data in SAP, ensuring SKU creation and master data accuracy through collaboration with relevant internal functions.
• Serve as the single point of contact (SPOC) for all demand change approvals and manage exceptions by conducting root cause analysis on demand pattern changes.
• Collaborate with Sales and Marketing to understand market demand fluctuations and adapt plans accordingly.
• Represent the SCM function in cross-functional projects aimed at process improvement and operational excellence.
• Develop and publish SCM dashboards and reports in Power BI to analyze data trends, supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
• Explore and make use of emerging technologies in the domain of AI, especially, expert systems and generative AI for helping to make faster decisions and actions
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual MIS reports and budgets, ensuring timely and accurate data presentation. Provide key insights to internal and external teams
• Lead and implement digital solutions in the domain of SCM
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous learning.

Candidate Profile

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field; MBA or equivalent is a plus.
• 3+ years' experience in demand planning, supply chain management, or related roles, preferably in FMCG or paint industry.
• Proven experience in managing cross-functional stakeholder relationships.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret large data sets and generate actionable insights.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel, Power BI, and experience with SAP or similar ERP systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively.
• Assertive, proactive, and adaptable to fast-paced, high-growth business environments.
• Strong problem-solving mindset with attention to detail and process improvement orientation.
• Knowledge of Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process and SKU rationalization techniques.

Key Competencies/ Skills:

• Good written and verbal communication
• Experience working in the Paint or FMCG retail supply chain domain
• Familiarity with demand sensing and demand shaping concepts
• Ability to manage ambiguity and lead change initiatives

• Working with extra-large data sets

• Key interfaces:
  CEO and Senior Leadership Team

• Sales Team (All hierarchy levels)
• Marketing – Category Heads and Product Managers
• Supply Chain – Supply Planning
• Supply Chain – Distribution Planning
• Packaging Development Team