Demand Planning Specialist

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) presents an exciting opportunity for a Demand Planning Specialist  to join the CCBA Team. CCBA is the eighth largest Coca-Cola authorised bottler in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola ready-to-drink beverages sold in Africa by volume. With over 14,000 employees in Africa, CCBA group services more than 800,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. CCBA group operates in 14 countries: South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi and the islands of Comoros and Mayotte.

The successful candidate will be responsible for developing accurate rolling demand forecasts, optimizing forecasting models, and driving data-driven decision-making across the business.

• Accurate 18-Month Rolling Forecast: Deliver and maintain a high-accuracy forecast over an 18-month period, integrating market trends, historical data, and sales intelligence to support business objectives.
• Optimized Forecast Models: Refine and optimize statistical forecasting models based on weekly exception reports and data analysis, leading to continuous improvement in forecast accuracy and overall predictive CDS Compliance Alignment and forecasting process effectiveness.
• Cross-Departmental Alignment on Forecasts: Ensure effective communication and alignment across departments on forecast assumptions, demand drivers, and monthly demand review.
• Data-Driven Forecasting Decisions: Leverage data-driven forecasting process to build high data-driven forecasts. Provide clear, exception monitoring, and regular performance tracking to continually refine and enhance demand planning.

Education

• Formal qualification in Supply Chain Management, Business, Statistics, or a related field.

Skills

• Strong ability to analyse and interpret complex datasets to identify trends, enhance forecasting accuracy, and implement data-driven improvements.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in validating sales data and historical information using forecasting tools, ensuring alignment of forecasts with marketing, sales, and operational objectives.
• Ability to quickly adjust forecasts and predictive models in response to changing market conditions, ensuring responsiveness to business needs.
• Exceptional communication skills to clearly present forecast plans, insights, and recommendations to stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.

Experience:

• 3+ years experience in developing, managing, and maintaining highly accurate forecasts in fast-paced, complex business environments, within a FMCG Industry.