Customer centricity and focused demand planning function for the market needs and over all categories are the key business priorities of growth. Demand planning expert is responsible for navigating the business with demand forecast for market and products as part of the S&OP+ process, assess activity volumes based on assumptions aligned with key stakeholders, propose suggestions for demand planning process improvement to achieve forecasting accuracy indicators and being source of expertise in demand planning & one set of numbers.

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Preparing demand forecast for all categories “Chocolate, Gum, Fruity Confections, Pet Nutrition” for several countries (Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia) based on inputs from one demand team members. Assessment of risks and opportunities for the forecast to ensure high-level of forecasting accuracy indicators. Creating demand forecast in horizon of 1-3 years in volume (1-year short term forecast with Bottom-up model and 2-3 years long term forecast with Top-Down model) with global and internal signature steps and forecasting tools and statistical models.
• Be acknowledged and understand internal (sales history, distribution, customer and channel specifics etc.) and external (category growth, macroeconomic situation and market indicators, population etc.) factors affecting business to make sure to have a reasonable and logical input to forecast.
• Facilitate Pre-DMR (forecast) meeting on periodical basis and make sure all decisions are incorporated into S&OP+ process for one set of numbers. Make sure all inputs are aligned between stakeholders. Present Pre-DMR (forecast) outputs on DMR meetings, navigate forum members to take decisions on forecast.
• Make sure that forecast accuracy indicators are achieved and are within planned targets. Conduct forecast accuracy root cause analysis and propose accuracy improvement actions.
• Evaluate Brand and Sales activities conducted on the markets and conduct post-launch reviews.
• Prepare accurate, aligned and based on clear assumptions forecast by SKU for upload to the factory in production systems to ensure the availability of products. Represent demand planning function in collaboration with local and regional Supply stakeholders.
• Create the bridge between Sales, Category, Supply and Finance departments, providing latest sales forecast, trend, statistical analysis and demand indicators.
• Be point of contact for demand related topics for Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia. Back-up members of the team if necessary. Participate on related meetings and be a representative of demand function.
• Manage annual planning (Stretch) and strategy forecast process for Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.
• Represent Demand Planning Head as back-up at all S&OP+ Step meetings.

What are we looking for?

• Prove records of relevant experience min 3-5 years, preferably in Demand Planning, Sales, Supply or Production planning.
• Demonstrated strong quantitative and analytical experience using Excel, PowerPoint and other computer applicative.
• Demonstrated experience of delivering effective presentation using qualitative and quantitative data to influence leadership behaviors and decisions.
• Upper-Intermediate or advanced level of English

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with over 130,000 diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Equal opportunity statement

Mars is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need an accommodation during the application process due to a disability, it is available upon request.