Graduate Analyst - Demand Planner in Watford

We are seeking a recent, or soon to be, Graduate for a permanent role where full training will be given. The Demand Planning function is responsible for the creation of a sales demand forecast and overseeing the optimisation of inventory against a demand/supply forecast plan. The plan should be actively managed together with material requirements planning (MRP) to ensure a high level of fulfilment and availability. The Graduate will work in specific software systems and with internal and external stakeholders to drive continuous improvement, enhance forecast accuracy, and ensure compliance with company policies. They will provide insight into demand and supply patterns and their contribution to company profitability.

Key Responsibilities

• Run the Forecasting process with inputs from all relevant stakeholders to ensure data is accurate and assumptions agreed.
• Refresh the Forecast on an agreed cadence.
• Run the MRP process to identify stock replenishment needs and address stock shortages.
• Maintain and update MRP parameters, including supplier lead times, sales forecasts, minimum stock limits, and preferred suppliers.
• Support the team in preparing and raising purchase orders for stock replenishment based on MRP outputs.
• Oversee validation and approval of purchase orders to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Ensure stocking levels are maintained at optimal minimum and maximum levels to support business needs and customer order fulfilment.
• Maintain and manage accurate master data within procurement systems to ensure reliable MRP outputs and reporting.
• Leverage and manage dashboard tools such as Power BI to provide actionable insights for procurement and inventory management.
• Troubleshoot data discrepancies and ensure alignment between operational data and reporting metrics.
• Present actionable insights to senior management and stakeholders using data visualizations and performance dashboards.
• Ensure compliance with company guidelines, purchasing policies, and procedures during all procurement activities.
• Work closely with the procurement team to identify opportunities for process improvements, lead time insights, and business enhancements.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to align procurement strategies with business objectives and drive operational efficiency.
• Facilitate cross-functional meetings to address supply chain risks, resolve bottlenecks, and drive process improvements.
• Train and mentor junior procurement staff on MRP systems, data analysis tools, and best practices.

Competencies and Key Skills

• Strong skills in Maths and/or Statistics.
• Understanding of Financial factors.
• Commercial curiosity.
• Any previous exposure to integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems would be advantageous.
• Any prior experience in material planning would be advantageous.
• Any prior experience in PowerBI or similar data analysis and reporting applications would be advantageous.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with staff, stakeholders, and suppliers.
• Effective time management and prioritisation skills to meet deadlines and achieve set targets.
• Effective communication with various stakeholders, including senior management, suppliers, and junior staff.
• Willingness to research and implement advanced forecasting techniques and stay up to date with best practices.
• Keen focus on accuracy and detail in all aspects of procurement and data management.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines and multiple priorities.

Qualifications and Experience Levels

• A bachelor's degree in Maths/Statistics, Supply Chain management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred, though equivalent qualifications will be considered.
• Any experience in procurement, material planning, or supply chain analytics would be advantageous.
• Computer literacy with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and any experience with Power BI, SQL, Python and AI tools for data analysis is advantageous.

Training

The successful candidate will be offered full training on the company systems and any application that is required to perform the role. Additional industry subject matter training such as Inventory Modelling will also be offered. Any additional qualification considered useful to the role will be considered and supported.