As a Forecasting and Planning Analyst, you will develop a  statistical forecast and Demand Planning for Customized Window Treatment products. This position is accountable for raw material availability to deliver customized product within 48 hours by cross-managing inventory at two manufacturing plants and a warehousing facility.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and actively manage SKU forecasts utilizing inputs including: sales forecast, historical demand, promotional plans, new product introductions, end of life and product rationalization.
• Analyze forecasts of SKUs including seasonal promotions, incorporating all pertinent information to help obtain optimal results. 
• Determine the forecast model that is most appropriate for each SKU based on product life, market trends, and seasonality.
• Identify and adjust safety stock levels based on product type, lead-time and run-rates.
• Review forecasts to identify outliers, communicate action plans and revise future forecasts.
• Promote continuous improvement of forecasting processes, procedures and policies.
• Update Forecasting Software parameters on a monthly basis with the results of the latest forecast.
• Manage inventory levels to minimize waste while ensuring minimum back orders. 
• Engage in solution-based communication that ensures business needs are met, partnering with Merchandising and Purchasing cross-functional teams to ensure strategies and plans are transparent and fully integrated.
• Create and maintain an up-to-date forecast and purchase plan for all new products and report on sales trends and inventory status upon launch to maximize sales, while minimizing inventory liabilities.
• Create ad hoc reporting as necessary.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

• BA degree in Supply Chain, Business, Statistics or related field.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with others – demonstrates ability to deliver strong business results by working collaboratively with both internal and external resource effectively. Utilizes resources effectively to overcome challenges and achieve business objectives. Takes ownership where appropriate.
• Independent priority-setting – prioritizes tasks to maximize impact and results with limited resources and time. Correctly and consistently assesses and prioritizes what is mission-critical, nice to complete, or not central to achieving the goals.
• Analytical and problem solving skills – ability to convert analysis into insights and actionable plans. Able to sort through complex data to identify the core issues and develop a plan of action to resolve them. Resourceful at achieving objectives / results despite obstacles. Comfortable making conclusions with incomplete information.
• Strong communication and influence skills – clear, concise, and persuasive in style. Ability to build strong and productive relationships with  cross-functional teams, and vendors.
• Results orientation – focuses not only on what needs to be achieved, but also makes sure that it’s done the right way.
• Energized by an entrepreneurial environment – not afraid to do things themselves to get things done. Comfortable making decisions with limited information and resources. Self-reliant / proactive and has a pioneering spirit. Takes initiative and follows-through on commitments to achieve results.

OTHER SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• ERP system experience preferred
• High degree of proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite. Advanced Excel skills are required (i.e. v-lookups, pivot tables, formula creation). Experience with MS Access is preferred.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of retail math
• Demonstrated problem solving and troubleshooting capabilities
• Effective written and verbal communication skills along with the ability to influence others
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multi-task under time sensitive deadlines Demonstrated analytical skills, knowledge of merchandising concepts and the ability to analyze key business indicators

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