Demand Supply Planning Manager

Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain, you will be responsible for developing accurate demand forecasts by translating commercial plans, customer trends, and market insights into SKU-level inventory requirements. The position leads the demand planning process within S&OP, balancing product availability with inventory productivity while proactively managing stock risks. Working closely with Buying, Merchandising, European Supply Chain teams, Finance, Marketing and Retail Operations, the role drives forecast accuracy, informed inventory decisions, and continuous improvement in planning capabilities. Your Role: 1. Demand Forecasting & Planning - Own the regional forecasting process, ensuring high forecast accuracy across all channels and markets. - Lead monthly demand review and forecast alignment with Commercial, Retail and Marketing teams. - Drive continuous improvement of forecasting methodologies using historical trends, commercial intelligence and product lifecycle analysis. - Develop monthly and seasonal demand forecasts across brands, SKUs, countries, stores, and channels. 2. Inventory Optimization & Demand Performance - Develop inventory strategies that maximize product availability while optimizing working capital. - Manage replenishment planning from European distribution centres into the Middle East. - Monitor stock availability, weeks of cover, ageing inventory and replenishment performance across all GCC markets. - Manage inventory risks including shelf life, batch expiry, product discontinuation, testers, samples, and promotional packs. 3. S&OP & Cross-Functional Collaboration - Lead the demand review within the S&OP process, ensuring alignment across Buying, Merchandising, Supply Chain, Finance, Marketing and Retail Operations. - Coordinate with suppliers and Supply Chain teams on lead times, MOQs, and shipment schedules. 4. Analytics, Reporting & Planning Excellence - Develop dashboards and provide regular insights to senior management on demand, forecast performance, availability, and inventory health. Qualifications & Skills: - Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations, Finance, or a related discipline. - 6-9 years of experience in Demand Planning, Merchandise Planning, Inventory Planning, or Supply Chain, preferably within beauty, retail, or consumer goods. - Proven experience managing planning activities in demand forecasting, S&OP, inventory optimization, replenishment, and stock management across multiple Middle East markets. - Strong expertise in forecasting, inventory optimization, merchandise planning and Open-to-Buy management. - Experience working with Power BI, ERP and planning systems together with advanced Excel and business intelligence tools.