Business Planning Analyst

Overview:

The Business Planning Analyst is responsible for leading inventory planning and demand forecasting strategies that align with overall business objectives. This role serves as a key partner across Sales, Supply Chain, and Operations, driving data-informed decision-making to optimize inventory levels, improve service performance, and minimize excess and obsolete inventory. The position requires advanced analytical capabilities, strong business acumen, and the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

(Includes the following, other duties may be assigned)

Primary Responsibilities :

Own and lead the demand forecasting and inventory planning process across assigned product categories or business units Develop and implement inventory strategies that balance service levels, working capital, and operational efficiency Partner closely with Sales, Supply Chain, Finance, and Operations to align forecasts with business plans and market trends Lead the monthly Demand Review as part of the SIOP process, ensuring alignment across Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Supply Planning Analyze complex data sets to identify risks, opportunities, and actionable insights that impact inventory performance Monitor and report on key performance indicators such as forecast accuracy, inventory turns, fill rates, and excess/obsolete inventory Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance forecasting accuracy and inventory optimization processes Serve as a subject matter expert on inventory planning systems, tools, and best practices Lead cross-functional meetings and influence decision-making related to demand planning and inventory management Collaborate with external partners or vendors, as needed, to ensure alignment on planning and replenishment strategies

Education And/or Experience:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Mathematics, or a related field 2+ years of experience in inventory planning, demand planning, supply chain analytics, or a related field Proven experience owning and managing demand forecasting and inventory planning processes Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets and translate insights into actionable strategies Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, advanced formulas, data modeling) Experience working with ERP systems (such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms) Demonstrated ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and drive business decisions Strong communication skills with the ability to present data and recommendations to leadership Ability to manage multiple priorities and operate effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

Preferred Qualifications:

4+ years of experience in inventory planning, forecasting, or supply chain strategy Experience in a manufacturing, retail, or consumer goods environment Hands-on experience with demand planning or forecasting tools (e.g., SAP IBP, Kinaxis, Anaplan, or similar) Experience with data visualization tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or similar platforms Working knowledge of SQL, Power Query, or other data extraction/manipulation tools Experience leading cross-functional initiatives or projects with measurable business impact Prior experience mentoring or guiding junior team members Strong understanding of inventory optimization techniques, service level management, and working capital trade-offs Continuous improvement mindset with experience in process optimization, standardization, or automation initiatives