Role Overview
We are seeking a strategic and data-driven Director of Demand Planning to lead forecasting and demand management across a complex and high-growth product portfolio. This role will own the end-to-end demand planning function, driving forecast accuracy, inventory optimization, and cross-functional alignment across Sales, Marketing, Product, Finance, and Supply Planning.
The ideal candidate has deep experience in high-SKU consumer goods (preferably beauty or fashion), thrives in fast-paced environments, and can translate data into clear, actionable insights to support business growth.
Key Responsibilities
Demand Planning Strategy & Leadership
- Own the demand planning function across 5,000+ SKUs, including core assortment, seasonal launches, limited editions, and retail exclusives
- Develop and execute scalable forecasting processes that support rapid SKU expansion and product lifecycle complexity
- Lead the monthly S&OP process, ensuring alignment across cross-functional stakeholders
- Build, mentor, and scale a high-performing demand planning team
Forecasting & Analytics
- Generate and continuously improve SKU-level forecasts using statistical models and business inputs
- Analyze historical trends, seasonality, promotional impact, and product lifecycle curves
- Drive improvements in forecast accuracy (MAPE, bias) and establish KPI reporting dashboards
- Leverage tools (e.g., ERP systems, forecasting software, Excel, BI tools, AI) to automate and enhance planning capabilities
Product Launch & Lifecycle Management
- Partner with Product Development and Marketing to forecast new product launches and limited collections
- Manage demand planning for product transitions, discontinuations, and cannibalization scenarios
- Establish best practices for new SKU onboarding and forecast ramp curves
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate with Sales and Retail teams to incorporate channel-level demand signals (e.g., promotions, distribution gains, retailer forecasts)
- Partner closely with Supply Planning and Procurement to ensure supply alignment and inventory optimization
- Work with Finance to align forecasts with revenue targets and financial planning
Inventory Optimization
- Balance service levels with inventory efficiency across DTC, retail, and wholesale channels
- Identify risks and opportunities (stockouts, excess inventory) and proactively recommend mitigation strategies
- Support safety stock strategies and inventory segmentation
Systems & Process Improvement
- Evaluate and implement demand planning tools and systems to support scale
- Drive process standardization and documentation across the planning function
- Champion data quality and governance across forecasting inputs
Qualifications
- 8-12+ years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or supply chain analytics
- 3-5+ years of leadership experience managing and developing teams
- Experience in high-SKU consumer goods environments (beauty, apparel, CPG strongly preferred)
- Proven track record managing complex product portfolios (1,000+ SKUs; 5,000+ preferred)
- Strong analytical skills with expertise in Excel and experience with ERP/forecasting tools (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Anaplan, ToolsGroup, etc.)
- Experience leading S&OP / IBP processes
- Exceptional cross-functional communication and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in beauty, cosmetics, or personal care
- Familiarity with DTC and retail omni-channel demand planning
- Experience managing seasonal and trend-driven product portfolios
- Background in scaling planning processes in high-growth companies
Key Success Metrics
- Forecast accuracy (MAPE, bias) improvement
- Inventory turns and weeks of supply optimization
- Service levels / in-stock rates across channels
- Successful execution of product launches and seasonal drops
- Reduction in excess and obsolete inventory
