Global Forecast Analyst

POSITION SUMMARY

The Global Forecast Analyst is responsible for generating accurate product forecasts using statistical modeling techniques and advanced mathematical analysis. This role is key to ensuring high customer satisfaction while maintaining optimal inventory levels across all distribution centers.

The analyst leverages various tools and methodologies to evaluate historical sales data, customer demand, product placements, and seasonality trends. Additionally, this position collaborates with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders to provide actionable recommendations, fulfill customer demand, and support continuous improvement projects within the Global Forecasting team.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1.     Forecast Management & Accuracy:

• Analyze, update, and monitor demand forecasts at the SKU/warehouse level using statistical forecasting systems; communicate changes to relevant departments.
• Calculate and track forecasting KPIs (e.g., Forecast Accuracy and Forecast Bias) against target metrics; identify root causes of discrepancies and implement corrective actions.

2.     Demand Tracking & Evaluation:

• Monitor actual customer orders against forecasted demand, adjusting forecasts as necessary.
• Evaluate inventory levels and supply chain reliability to approve Ad Notices, promotional requests, and customer projections, ensuring product availability and customer satisfaction.

3.     Product Lifecycle & Inventory Planning:

• Manage and track the entire product lifecycle, including product status, demand forecasting, promotion readiness, and inventory health.
• Identify planned product phase-outs (drops); recommend optimal sunset timelines based on finished goods, raw materials on hand, and vendor inventory.
• Negotiate final production runs with Production, Purchasing, and vendors; direct order expediting, deferrals, or cancellations as needed.
• Identify excess inventory, recommend items for promotional closeouts (e.g., Hot Buys), and develop strategies to liquidate remaining stock.

4.     Stakeholder Collaboration & Strategic Planning:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key business partners to ensure data accuracy and reliable forecasting inputs.
• Identify anomalous demand patterns or out-of-norm conditions, escalate them to management, and propose practical solutions.
• Contribute to long- and short-term business strategy; actively participate in Product Review and Integrated Business Planning (IBP) meetings.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects assigned by management.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Education

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a related field.

2. Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or inventory management.

3. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with a solid understanding of mathematical/statistical concepts.
• Proficiency in demand forecasting methodologies and inventory planning techniques.
• Solid knowledge of end-to-end supply chain principles and practices.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and specialized demand planning software.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; hands-on experience with data analysis tools (SQL, Python, Power BI, Tableau, etc.) is a strong plus.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Fluency in English (both written and spoken).