Demand Planner (Temporary position through August 2025)

As a Demand Planner at Foster Farms, your main responsibilities will include supporting the generation and assessment of the Demand Forecast, collaborating with cross-functional partners, and ensuring the accuracy of the forecast for our supply chain processes. You'll be actively involved in the monthly demand planning process and will play a vital role in the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process.

To qualify for the Demand Planner position at Foster Farms, candidates should ideally hold a Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or Business Administration. Additionally, a minimum of three years of experience in Supply Chain Management or Operations is preferred, along with experience in statistical forecasting and knowledge of MRP systems like SAP APO/IBP.

Collaboration is key for the Demand Planner role at Foster Farms. You will work with various departments to gather input and insights that contribute to building an accurate demand forecast. This collaboration ensures that everyone is aligned and accountable for driving the business results and meeting customer expectations.

Demand Planners at Foster Farms often use sophisticated tools and software such as SAP APO/IBP for forecasting and inventory management. Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel, is also essential for data analysis and presentation, enabling planners to communicate insights effectively.

The work environment for a Demand Planner at Foster Farms is fast-paced and supportive. You'll be part of a team that values communication, initiative, and self-improvement. The company culture promotes collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring that all members have the opportunity to enhance their skills in a family business atmosphere.

To create a demand forecast, I begin by reviewing historical sales data and using statistical methods to analyze trends. I also consider external factors like promotions and market conditions. By collaborating with sales and marketing teams, I aim to gather insights and reach a consensus on anticipated demand.

In my previous positions, I have extensively used SAP APO/IBP for inventory management and demand planning. I've found that utilizing its advanced forecasting features greatly enhances accuracy. I also appreciate its capability to streamline collaboration across departments.

For variance analysis, I focus on comparative review; I analyze forecasted vs. actual sales, looking for patterns in discrepancies. I also assess the underlying reasons for the variances, such as unforeseen changes in customer behavior or market conditions, and adjust future forecasts accordingly.

To ensure cross-functional buy-in, I organize regular meetings to discuss forecasts and gather stakeholders' input. I present data clearly, showing how the consensus forecast aligns with broader business goals. Engagement and open communication are essential in building trust and accountability.

Data analysis is crucial in my role as a Demand Planner. It informs all aspects of forecasting, from trend analysis to customer behavior assessment. By leveraging data effectively, I can make informed decisions that enhance forecast accuracy and ultimately improve supply chain efficiency.

When faced with tight deadlines, I prioritize tasks based on urgency and impact. I ensure that I maintain open communication with my team, clearly articulating any concerns or challenges. Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps helps me maintain focus and avoid burnout.

In my previous job, I identified that our existing forecasting process was overly reliant on historical data. I introduced additional variables such as market trends and promotional activities, which significantly improved our forecast accuracy and reduced excess inventory.

I evaluate forecast accuracy through key performance indicators such as Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) or Bias. I regularly compare forecasts against actual sales and conduct root cause analyses on significant variances to continuously refine the forecasting process.

Managing relationships during the S&OP process involves being proactive in communication and providing transparency. I invite stakeholders to share their insights and concerns, fostering a collaborative spirit. Regular check-ins help keep everyone on the same page and build trust among team members.

One of the biggest challenges for a Demand Planner at Foster Farms may be adapting to the fluctuating nature of customer demand and the external market landscape. Staying agile and flexible in the face of uncertainty while ensuring accurate forecasts requires vigilance and a strong understanding of both data and market trends.