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# Director of Demand Planning


Role Overview for Director of Demand Planning
JRG Partners is excited to partner with a leading innovator in the Manufacturing sector, seeking a highly strategic and experienced Director of Demand Planning. This pivotal role will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client’s supply chain operations, directly impacting their market responsiveness, inventory efficiency, and overall profitability.
As the Director of Demand Planning, you will be at the forefront of orchestrating the critical balance between market demand and supply capabilities, leading a talented team to develop robust, data-driven forecasting strategies. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a visionary leader to drive significant change, implement cutting-edge methodologies, and foster a culture of continuous improvement within a dynamic and growth-oriented environment.
You will be responsible for defining, developing, and deploying best-in-class demand planning processes and systems across the organization. This includes leveraging advanced analytics, market intelligence, and collaborative inputs from sales, marketing, finance, and operations to create accurate, reliable forecasts that guide production, inventory, and procurement decisions. Your leadership will ensure that the supply chain is agile, resilient, and perfectly aligned with business objectives, anticipating market shifts and optimizing resource allocation.
If you are a results-oriented professional with a deep understanding of demand planning intricacies, a passion for innovation, and a proven ability to lead and inspire, we encourage you to explore this exceptional career opportunity. Join a forward-thinking company where your strategic insights will directly contribute to sustained competitive advantage and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Demand Planning
Strategic Demand Forecasting Leadership
Develop, implement, and continuously refine advanced statistical forecasting models and methodologies to predict demand accurately across multiple product lines, channels, and geographies. Lead the integration of market intelligence, promotional plans, economic indicators, and historical data into the forecasting process to enhance accuracy and reduce forecast error. Drive innovation in forecasting techniques, including the adoption of machine learning and AI-driven solutions where appropriate.
Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) / Integrated Business Planning (IBP) Management
Champion and lead the monthly S&OP/IBP cycle, ensuring seamless cross-functional collaboration between sales, marketing, finance, operations, and supply chain teams. Facilitate executive-level S&OP meetings, presenting demand plans, highlighting key assumptions, identifying risks and opportunities, and driving consensus on a single, executable operating plan. Ensure alignment of demand plans with financial objectives and strategic goals.
Inventory Optimization and Management
Collaborate closely with inventory management, production planning, and procurement teams to translate demand forecasts into optimal inventory targets. Develop strategies to minimize excess and obsolete inventory while ensuring high service levels and product availability. Implement inventory segmentation strategies and safety stock policies that balance cost and service objectives effectively.
Team Leadership and Development
Recruit, mentor, coach, and develop a high-performing team of demand planners. Foster a collaborative, data-driven culture focused on continuous learning and professional growth. Set clear performance objectives, conduct regular performance reviews, and provide opportunities for skill enhancement and career progression within the team.
Process Improvement and Technology Utilization
Identify opportunities for process automation, standardization, and optimization within the demand planning function. Evaluate, select, and implement advanced planning systems (APS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) modules to enhance forecasting capabilities, improve data visibility, and streamline workflows. Ensure optimal utilization of existing planning tools and technologies.
Performance Measurement and Reporting
Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to forecast accuracy (e.g., MAPE, WAPE), bias, inventory turns, and service levels. Develop insightful dashboards and reports for leadership, providing actionable insights into demand performance and supply chain health. Drive root cause analysis for significant forecast variances and implement corrective actions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration and Stakeholder Management
Build strong relationships and foster effective communication channels with internal stakeholders, including Sales, Marketing, Product Development, Finance, Operations, and IT. Act as the primary point of contact for all demand-related inquiries and ensure that demand plans are effectively communicated and understood across the organization.
Market Intelligence and Trend Analysis
Continuously monitor market trends, competitor activities, economic forecasts, and consumer behavior to identify potential impacts on demand. Integrate these insights into the forecasting process and proactively communicate significant shifts to relevant stakeholders.
New Product Introduction (NPI) Support
Collaborate with product development and marketing teams on new product launches, providing initial demand forecasts, managing ramp-up and ramp-down curves, and ensuring seamless integration into the overall demand planning process.
Risk Management and Mitigation
Identify potential risks to demand plans (e.g., supply disruptions, sudden market shifts, competitor actions) and develop contingency plans. Work with cross-functional teams to mitigate risks and ensure business continuity.
Strategic Alignment
Ensure that demand planning strategies and initiatives are fully aligned with the company’s overall business strategy, growth objectives, and financial targets. Contribute to the long-range planning process from a demand perspective.
Industry Best Practices
Stay abreast of industry best practices and innovations in demand planning, supply chain management, and advanced analytics. Evaluate and recommend new tools, techniques, and methodologies to enhance the organization’s capabilities and maintain a competitive edge.
Requirements for the Director of Demand Planning
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, Economics, Statistics, or a related quantitative field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA, MS in Supply Chain) is highly preferred and will be a significant advantage.
Experience
A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in demand planning, forecasting, supply chain analytics, or S&OP roles, with at least 5-7 years in a leadership or managerial capacity leading a team of demand planners. Proven experience in a complex, multi-SKU, multi-channel environment (e.g., CPG, Retail, Manufacturing, Pharma).
Technical Acumen



Expert-level proficiency with advanced statistical forecasting techniques and models.
Hands-on experience with leading Advanced Planning Systems (APS) such as Kinaxis, Blue Yonder (JDA), SAP IBP, Oracle Demantra, or similar platforms.
Strong command of ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics) specifically related to planning modules.
Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Tableau, Power BI) and statistical software (e.g., R, Python) is a plus.



Leadership and Management Skills
Demonstrated ability to build, lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams. Exceptional leadership qualities with the ability to inspire, motivate, and manage change effectively. Proven ability to influence and collaborate with senior executives and cross-functional teams.
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
Superior analytical capabilities with a strong aptitude for problem-solving, data interpretation, and strategic thinking. Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills. Ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, from technical teams to executive leadership.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as APICS CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional), CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management), or CLTD (Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution) are highly desirable and reflect a commitment to excellence in the field.
Strategic Vision
Demonstrated ability to develop and execute long-term demand planning strategies that align with overall business objectives and drive competitive advantage.
Adaptability
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and evolving business environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing market conditions.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in investing in their people, recognizing that a thriving workforce is the foundation of their success. As a Director of Demand Planning, you will be offered a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package designed to support your professional growth, personal well-being, and financial security. We understand the importance of work-life balance and a supportive environment, which is why we strive to create a workplace where you can excel and feel valued.
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience, combined with a performance-based bonus structure that rewards significant contributions and achievements.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, ensuring access to quality healthcare. Includes options for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
Retirement Planning
A generous 401(k) retirement savings plan with a substantial company match, designed to help you build a secure financial future.
Paid Time Off
Ample paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays, encouraging a healthy work-life balance and opportunities for rest and rejuvenation.
Professional Development
Significant investment in your continuous learning and career advancement through training programs, workshops, industry conferences, and tuition reimbursement for relevant certifications (e.g., APICS) or further education.
Career Growth Opportunities
A clear path for upward mobility and leadership within the organization, with opportunities to take on new challenges and expand your influence.
Dynamic Work Environment
Join a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive culture where your ideas are valued, and teamwork is celebrated.
Employee Wellness Programs
Access to wellness initiatives, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and resources focused on mental and physical health.
Relocation Assistance
For exceptional candidates relocating to Dallas, TX, comprehensive relocation support will be provided to ensure a smooth transition.
Additional Perks
Potential for company discounts, employee recognition programs, and a vibrant office culture with regular team-building events.
How to Apply
Are you ready to take on a strategic leadership role that will define the future of supply chain excellence? If you are a driven and experienced Director of Demand Planning with a passion for optimizing complex operations and leading high-performing teams, we invite you to apply. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact within a leading organization.
To express your interest and be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and relevant experience through the JRG Partners portal. Our expert recruiters specialize in connecting top-tier talent with leading companies in the supply chain sector. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how your expertise aligns with our client’s vision for success.
Learn more about how JRG Partners excels in matching supply chain leaders with their ideal roles by visiting our dedicated JRG Partners Supply Chain Recruitment Practice page. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.