Global Demand Planning Manager

Role Overview:

We are seeking a strategic and analytical Global Demand Planning Manager to lead the development and execution of accurate demand forecasts across multiple regions.

This role will be responsible for driving a cross-functional demand planning process that aligns commercial, supply chain and Finance teams to ensure product availability, optimised inventory levels, and support business growth.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in supply chain or commercial planning, experience with statistical forecasting tools and a proven ability to influence stakeholders across global markets. This is a critical role that combines data-driven insights with strategic collaboration to enhance service levels, reduce waste, and improve end to end planning efficiency.

This role requires strong collaboration and effective communication with key stakeholders across Commercial Sales Regions, Distributors, Supply Chain, and Finance to ensure seamless integration and alignment of business objectives

Role Deliverables:

• Global Demand Forecasting - Build and maintain a robust, rolling forecast across all markets and customer types (distributors, Amazon, retailers)
• Deliver a Consensus forecast by product/SKU, region, and customer, incorporating historical data, market intelligence, and commercial input
• Forecast Accuracy & KPIs - Track forecast accuracy, bias, and value-add KPIs. Conduct root cause analyses and drive continuous improvement in forecast performance
• S&OP / IBP Leadership – Major contributor to the global demand planning step in the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process. Lead monthly demand reviews and drive alignment across Commercial, Finance, and Supply Chain teams
• Amazon & Retailer Forecast Integration - Integrate Amazon and retail POS data into forecasts, adjusting for seasonality, events (e.g., Prime Day), and promotional spikes. Collaborate with e-commerce and key account managers to align planning with customer behaviors.
• Distributor Collaboration - Partner with key global distributors to validate and challenge their demand forecasts - Establish consistent forecast submission processes and improve visibility into downstream demand
• New Product Introduction (NPI) Forecasting - Develop NPI demand models based on launch strategies and marketing plans - Ensure new products are included in forecast cycles and S&OP discussions early
• Make data driven proposals on product lifecycle actions – including SKU rationalisation, phase in/phase out timing and SKU end of life stock management through collaboration with Commercial, Marketing and Supply Chain teams.
• Scenario & Contingency Planning - Conduct scenario planning for demand volatility, regulatory shifts, or supply constraints - Identify upside/downside risks and provide options to mitigate service or cost impacts
• Forecast System and Process Development - Maintain and enhance demand planning tool IBP/SAP4H and oversea system upgrades or enhancements.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration - Work with Commercial and Marketing to align on assumptions - Partner with Supply Chain on capacity planning and inventory positioning - Provide demand input to Finance for revenue forecasting and budgeting
• Executive Reporting - Deliver clear and actionable demand summaries to senior leadership - Support strategic decisions with accurate forecast intelligence and trend insights
• People leadership – mentor and coach Demand Planners and drive best practice and improve efficiencies and accuracy

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain, Economics, Statistics or related field
• Professional Certification e.g. APICS or CPIM or equivalent
• 7+ years in Demand or Commercial Planning ideally within FMCG or Pharma sectors
• Proven experience in multi-market forecasting including working with distributors, e-commerce platforms such as Amazon.
• Experience contributor of S&OP/IBP processes at regional or global level
• Track record of working cross functionally with Sales, Marketing, Finance and Supply Chain
• Experience using ERP forecasting systems and IBP/SAP4H is desirable
• Familiarity with new product forecasting and lifecycle management
• Strong analytical skills – ability to interpret large data sets and convert to actionable insights and highly competent in advanced MS Excel
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement - Ability to influence and align across departments and geographies
• Commercial acumen – ability to understand and challenge sales inputs, customer trends and commercial plans
• Organised and detail-orientated and comfortable working in fast-paced, high growth environment
• Experience working with POS data, market intelligence or syndicated data e.g. Nielsen desirable
• Experience of manufacturing-based supply chain desirable

Why work for us?

‘The WaterWipes Way’ is underpinned by our Values of: Bravery, Excellence & Respect
We look for individuals who will drive acceptable actions and behaviours that will reflect our vision and values.

WaterWipes offers all the benefits of an established global brand, along with the exciting possibilities of an organisation that lives and breathes change.

There are so many reasons to join us on our ambitious journey to becoming an iconic global brand. Check out our careers page to find out more !