Supply Chain Optimization Analyst

As a Supply Chain Optimization Analyst at Shearer's, you'll have a diverse range of responsibilities. You will perform data analysis projects focusing on scenario planning, demand forecasting, and network optimization. You'll work with internal and external data, create demand and capacity scenarios, assist the Network Optimization Manager with executing network moves, and participate in the Sales and Operations Planning process. Your analytic insights will be essential in shaping organizational decisions to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.

To qualify for the Supply Chain Optimization Analyst position at Shearer's, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s Degree in operations, supply chain, or a related business discipline. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in supply chain KPIs and statistics, experience in demand forecasting, and strong analytical problem-solving skills. Proficiency in Excel and familiarity with Power BI are also preferred, enhancing your capability to derive insights from data effectively.

Successful Supply Chain Optimization Analysts at Shearer's possess a blend of analytical and organizational skills. It's crucial to be proficient in Excel for data analysis, have strong problem-solving abilities, and effectively communicate with varying levels of the organization. A good understanding of supply chain dynamics and the ability to prioritize tasks are also vital to excel in this fast-paced role that contributes to maximizing capacity and efficiency.

Working at Shearer's as a Supply Chain Optimization Analyst comes with a feast of benefits! You'll enjoy a comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plan, flexible spending accounts, and a retirement savings plan with matching contributions. In addition, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, and employee assistance programs are available. Plus, you'll have numerous opportunities to volunteer in the community, enriching your work-life balance while making a real difference.

The Supply Chain Optimization Analyst role at Shearer's is integral to the organization's decision-making process as it relates to the overall supply chain efficacy. Reporting directly to the Network Optimization Manager, you will collaborate with other supply chain planning teams to analyze data, develop forecasts, and create strategies that influence production efficiency and customer service. This role provides a direct avenue for impacting Shearer's operational success.

In responding to this question, you should highlight your relevant experience in demand forecasting, mentioning any specific methodologies you've utilized. Illustrate your understanding of key metrics such as sales trends and seasonality, along with your analytical skills in interpreting data to make informed predictions. Be sure to convey your ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to align demand with supply effectively.

When answering this question, you should mention tools you've utilized, like Excel for data manipulation and analysis, and any experience you have with software such as Power BI for data visualization. Discuss how these tools have contributed to your ability to perform analyses and generate reports that assist in decision-making within your previous roles.

To answer this question, highlight your organizational skills and time management techniques. Discuss how you assess the urgency and importance of each task to create a prioritization list. You can mention any tools or systems you use, such as Gantt charts or project management software, to help keep track of deadlines and project milestones.

When providing an example, choose a project where your contributions lead directly to improved efficiency or reduced costs. Outline the problem you faced, the analysis you conducted, the recommendations you made, and the outcomes achieved. This will showcase your impact and problem-solving capabilities in the context of supply chain optimization.

In response, discuss key metrics such as inventory turnover, order fulfillment rates, and lead time, explaining how these metrics provide insights into supply chain performance. Emphasize your knowledge of how to leverage these metrics in decision-making and continuous improvement processes.

Explain your understanding of scenario planning, which involves evaluating different future scenarios to assess possible outcomes. Discuss the importance of creating flexible strategies that can adapt to unpredictable market changes or demand fluctuations, and how this planning ensures better preparedness among the supply chain teams.

Provide a specific instance, detailing the inefficiency you noticed, your analysis method, and the actions you took to address it. Discuss what tools or data you used and how your solution positively impacted the supply chain performance.

Address your strategies for fostering communication among teams. Mention tools or methods you've employed, such as regular updates through project management tools, email newsletters, or team meetings. Highlight the importance of transparency and how it facilitates smoother operations and promotes a collaborative work environment.

Talk about current challenges such as supply chain disruptions due to global events or changing consumer demands and how they impact operations. Discuss ways to stay proactive, such as enhancing forecasting techniques, diversifying suppliers, or investing in technology to quickly adapt to challenges that may arise.

In your answer, convey your enthusiasm for Shearer's brand and values, the opportunities for professional growth you see within the company, and how your skills align with the organizational goals. Highlight your passion for optimizing supply chains in the food industry and how you can contribute to Shearer's continued success.