Demand Planner

Our leading FMCG manufacturing client is looking for a Demand Planner to ensure optimal inventory availability through accurate forecasting, effective replenishment planning, and strong supplier coordination based in Umhlanga. The role is responsible for balancing service levels with cost efficiency by maintaining the right stock at the right time to support production and operational requirements.

Key Performance Areas

• Analyse demand trends, forecasts, and inventory positions to determine replenishment requirements

• Generate and manage purchase orders based on system-driven demand, MOQ constraints, and lead times

• Maintain optimal inventory levels to meet service and production needs while minimising excess, slow-moving, and obsolete stock

• Track and expedite local and imported purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery

• Collaborate closely with Demand Planning, Supply Chain, and Operations teams to improve forecast accuracy and supply continuity

• Optimise order quantities and purchasing frequency to improve stock turnover and reduce holding and receiving costs

• Maintain accurate item, supplier, and pricing data within ERP or procurement systems

• Produce and analyse reports on stock availability, aged inventory, order fulfilment, and replenishment performance

• Monitor supplier performance, address delivery or quality issues, and support non-conformance resolution processes

• Assist with the drafting and management of supplier agreements in line with procurement policies

• Support project-based timelines and departmental planning initiatives

Qualifications & Experience

• Matric is essential; a relevant tertiary qualification in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Procurement will be advantageous

• 2–5 years’ experience in demand planning, replenishment, inventory management, or supply chain operations

• Strong analytical capability with experience in inventory planning and data analysis

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and organisational skills

• Proven ability to manage multiple SKUs in a fast-paced FMCG environment

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and related analytical tools

Behavioural Competencies

• High attention to detail with strong commercial awareness

• Analytical thinker with a proactive problem-solving/think out the box approach

• Results-driven with a continuous improvement mindset

• Strong collaboration skills across cross-functional teams

• Resilient under pressure with the ability to prioritise effectively