Manager, Demand Planning (Project Hire)

JOB SUMMARY:

The Manager Merchandise Demand Planning is a key leadership role responsible for driving both accurate demand forecasts and robust merchandise financial plans that optimize product availability inventory turns and financial performance. This leader directs a team of demand planners to generate actionable business insights and implement planning processes that drive product availability and business growth. The role partners cross-functionally with Product Development Supply Planning Strategic Planning Rev Ops and other key stakeholders to synchronize demand and financial plans with commercial strategies and operational capabilities. With a strong analytical mindset and collaborative leadership style the Manager Demand Planning plays a pivotal role in achieving Universals service level revenue and profitability goals.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the preparation validation and submission of category forecasts and merchandise financial plans.
• Oversee forecast updates and financial plans for new product introductions seasonal launches discounts and key promotions.
• Ensure timely monthly maintenance of forecasts and financial plans; schedule and lead forecast/budget review meetings.
• Maintain and improve planning processes to enhance forecast and budget accuracy.
• Monitor and analyze forecast accuracy inventory levels open-to-buy consensus meetings and sales/margin performance.
• Produce and communicate regular reports on forecasts buying plans budget status and performance to senior management.
• Support the annual budget process and periodic reforecasts identifying financial and demand risk/opportunity.
• Directly manage demand planners within assigned categories or channels.
• Coach delegate workload and strengthen planner skillsets for improved forecast accuracy and growth.
• Assist in employee recruitment performance evaluation promotion and retention activities.
• Maintain training materials and organize training for team member.
• Address short-term and routine operational concerns forecast variances and business plan adjustments.
• Liaise with Merchandising Supply and Finance to adjust plans and support business priorities.
• Serve as the primary contact for cross-functional partners regarding forecasts budgets promotional calendars and category strategy.
• Escalate significant risks gaps or business opportunities to leadership as needed.
• Understands and actively participates in Environmental Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy procedures training and team member involvement activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

• A Bachelors degree in Business Administration Supply Chain Management or a related field is required; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of this requirement.

EXPERIENCE:

• 7 years of experience in demand planning forecasting and inventory management with at least 2 years in a leadership role.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Strong statistical analysis skills with proficiency in forecast modeling techniques and use of demand planning software (e.g. SAP APO Oracle Demantra JDA Demand).
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and SQL.
• Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with stakeholders across various functions such as merchandise product development area merchandise operations and brand managers.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects involving multiple teams by providing direction and achieving consensus among diverse groups.
• Proactive problem-solving abilities coupled with strong organizational skills to manage complex datasets.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Consistent attendance is a job requirement.

Your talent skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E)

At Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E) we transform iconic stories into products and experiences fans can wear play collect and enjoy every day. From the thrilling universe of Jurassic World to the fun of Minions and the timeless magic of Back to the Future we bring beloved franchises to life far beyond the screen.
Founded in 2016 UP&E combines the energy of a startup with the reach of a global leader. Our mission is bold yet simple: to take imagination beyond the screen through innovative products immersive retail and unforgettable theme park experiences. Partnering with world class licensees and creators we deliver toys fashion collectibles games and lifestyle products across parks retail and digital platforms worldwide.
Creativity technology and storytelling are at the heart of everything we do. As part of Universal Destinations & Experiences youll join a collaborative inclusive global team where every voice mattershelping us be an employer of choice for top talent and a partner of choice for retailers licensees and creators. If youre ready to bring imagination to life and create moments that matter your adventure starts here.
Join us and help create moments that matter.
Orlando Resort. Here you can.