Forecast Analyst

Forecast Analyst

 

The role of the Forecast Analyst is to be responsible for the development of product line forecasts to be used by Planning, Purchasing, Finance, Distribution, and the S&OP process.  These forecasts will drive inventory-stocking levels and production plans globally throughout the New Era Cap system such that inventory related costs are minimized and production efficiencies are maximized while a superior customer service level is maintained. 

 Responsibilities:

Manage the compilation of data from multiple sources (historical, seasonal, raw field input, life cycle, etc.) and complete analysis using system based forecasting tools for the development of a consensus forecast:

 Monitors monthly forecast accuracy results versus targets and reports on variance from goals, highlighting risk areas to the consensus teamProvide individual forecast accuracy results to each field sales rep and their respective regional managerWorks with Demand Planner, Sales, and SBU Marketing teams to improve forecast resultsConduct sales/buying forecast review meetings with key accounts monthly

 Develops forecasts through analysis using statistical tools and algorithms, historical sales, demand projections at the BU level, and material sales projections from field sales reps.Provides system suggested forecast to the sales team for input after analysis of demand history and adjusting for trends and seasonalityFacilitates product line review meetings with SBU teamsFactors strategic business plans and outside factors into forecast analysisDevelops consensus forecast given all input sources

 Works with Production Planning to ensure reconciled forecasts are translated properly into Production Planning.

 Subject-matter-expert for SAP AFS Demand PlanningResponsible for all related training (new associates, retraining, 3rd party users, etc.) and documentation (i.e. SAP SOPs and training scripts)

 Owns the set-up and maintenance of the user defined fields for use in the SAP AFS Demand Planning tables

 Owns the testing of demand planning related transactions for all new system upgrades and enhancementsAs such, the Forecast Analyst is jointly responsible for maintenance of SAP Demand Planning data, along with the Demand Planner, as well as the strategies and profiles for the materials being forecasted

 Works with the Demand Planner and the rest of the planning team to expand utilization of systems based tools and improve current system processes so that Supply Chain processes are more accurate and efficient

 Recalculate Safety Stock levels and Planned Size Distributions by product line quarterly, or as business needs dictate, reviewing proposed changes with the planning team.

 Other duties or tasks as assigned

 Skills, Experience, and Knowledge Requirements:

Minimum of 3 years hands-on experience in a forecasting or demand planning related job role:

· Strong knowledge and experience in advanced forecasting techniques and statistical modeling

· Experience in planning, and scheduling a medium to large size consumer products company

· Must be attuned to the needs of internal customers, employ diplomacy & tact, and work well in a team environment

· Sound computer skills

· Must be familiar with a major ERP system (SAP, PeopleSoft, JD Edwards, Oracle, etc.)

· Must have strong experience using a Forecasting or Demand Planning software tool.

· Strong MS Office application skills (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.)

· Detail oriented; accomplishes tasks by considering all areas involved showing concern for all processes and tasks, no matter how small

· Must have good mathematical skills

· Must have the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with various levels of staff and outside customers/suppliers

· Understand how to develop effective goals which support a company’s strategic objective.

 Personal and Leadership Qualifications

You must be able to demonstrate achievement over time in the following areas:

· Enthusiastic, positive person who embraces and facilitates change with a sense of urgency and persistence

· Challenges self to learn better ways of doing things (seeks out learning/development opportunities to improve skill set, attends courses and seminars to broaden knowledge) and demonstrates initiative.

· Works hard to establish collaborative working relationships and actively develops them to more effectively accomplish work objectives

· Must be punctual and possess a strong work ethic

 EducationBachelors Degree in Business Administration or other Supply Chain related field and 3 years of relevant job experienceAPICS Certification preferred

 Travel Requirements

Minimal; up to 10%

 Reporting Relationship

This position reports directly to the Planning & Scheduling Manager