Supply Chain Optimization Specialist

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

MBA or equivalent is a plus.

Key Competencies / Skills :