The Global Demand and Forecast Director will work with a small global team (4 direct reports and some dotted line reports) to manage the timely input, processing and analysis of unit forecasts through to supply planning, whilst communicating forecast risks and supply constraints back to the regional representatives. 

The successful applicant will work closely with the regions and markets to continuously develop and improve forecasting processes and guidelines which will deliver a sustained improvement to the group’s forecast accuracy.

Key responsibilities will include:

Lead the forecasting process within Oriflame

• Understand and manage the dynamics between the market and regional forecasting teams and the central supply and distribution planners.
• Alignment of the central and regional processes. Close collaboration with Regional / Market Directors and Senior Managers
• Develop, own and communicate the group’s forecasting policies and procedures
• Monitor and ensure market adherence to such polices
• Solicit input from regions and market forecasting functions on key issues and represent the group Forecasting function in central meetings, workshops, discussions and decision making forums
• Mentor regional forecasting managers and communicate and constantly educate and evaluate the regional teams
• Set Global and regional targets and monitor and feedback on Global and regional KPI’s
• Establish know-how needed in the markets to provide credible forecasts

Lead and manage the central forecasting team

• Set department objectives and goals, give leadership, development and management in the day to day running of the department
• Review performance, give feedback and make recommendations on future development needs

·         Ensure formal and informal flow of information and understanding of the forecast though supply process and dynamics

·         Ensure product forecast matches sales forecast at all times

Manage Forecast Variability

·         Continuously analyse current results and issues and assess long term implications in terms of sales volumes

·         Match sales forecast and product forecast to ensure compatibility with company strategic objective.

·         Facilitate the Demand Review Process including creation of the remand review package and follow-up of actions. Managing abnormal demand, assumptions and proposing gap closing activities throughout organisation

Meetings and reporting

·         Own and produce top level reports and run supply handover meetings

·         Facilitate and Chair the forecasting council meetings

• Consolidate group demand and issue reports on regional and group level

·         Act as a reporting centre of excellence, providing reports to senior management.

·         Formal feedback and constant communication with regional functions by ‘phone, email and personal visits.

Continuous Improvement

·         Take ownership of forecasting issues and find workable solutions, both short term and long term.

• Seek to challenge regional and forecasting functions and global supply chain on process improvements.

The successful candidate will possess the following skills, experience and attributes:

·         University Degree (preferably in a technical / mathematical discipline)

·         +5 years of Demand / Supply Chain experience

·         Proven track record of working in a similar direct sales environment.

·         Experience in a multinational, multi site organisation preferred

·         Knowledge/understanding of supply planning and distribution systems and processes.

·         English, written and spoken. Other languages used in Central / Eastern Europe a distinct advantage

·         Experience of working in an S&OP environment

• Knowledge of statistical forecasting approaches and techniques

·         Naturally analytical and able to relate multiple data sources

·         Interest and desire to look and understand details behind numbers, systems and processes

·         Strong influencing and communication skills

• Good people management and leadership skills but must be a team player

Please call us on 0161 848 9807 to find out more about this fabulous career opportunity, or send your CV by email to info@pamanthony-recruitment quoting Job Ref PAA344