Who We Are:
Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.
JOB MISSION:
The Demand Planner plays a critical role in delivering business results through owning the creation, analysis, and execution of the North America Demand Plan. This Planner will be responsible for providing a detailed shipment forecast at the model and item level to the organization covering various channels of business and product lines, as assigned. Additionally, this role will support the collection and interpretation of the History shipments, Sales Forecast, Sell thru analytics, etc. and their impact to the Demand Plan. The planner brings an analytical, data driven, and growth mindset to both their technical and business approach to the ownership of the demand plan and various forecasting activities. This position is a key contributor within the Go-To Market process, representing the region through active engagement and participation in the monthly S&OP Process.
MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Development and management of item level demand plan for areas of the business as assigned
Actively manage risks and opportunities to the plan and partner with Cross Functional Team (Category Planning, Sales, and Merchandising) to keep assumptions current.
Pressure test forecasts against demand, replenishment assumptions and updated accuracy metrics
Actively manage and summarize “what-if” scenario plans for various Risks and Opportunities impact to the plan in partnership with Sales, Marketing and Merchandising to ensure communication and assumptions are current and aligned to business expectations
Lead the monthly GBU Reconciliation process for all Channels (Wholesale and DTC) for both US and Canada
Close collaboration with Sales, Merchandising, Product Marketing, Finance and Inventory Planning
Represent Demand Planning & Forecasting in the Go-To Market process, from Global Line Review through Line Confirmation adhering to the published Forecast Calendar
Manage and analyze the Sales Forecast and Sell Thru inputs and channels and understand their impact on the demand plan.
REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS
Four-year college degree and a minimum of 2+ years related experience (ie. Demand Planning, Inventory Planning, Sales Forecasting, Supply Chain or equivalent)
Working experience with Forecasting Software, techniques and capabilities, and reporting, a plus
Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills with an emphasis on problem solving, conflicting objectives, and dealing with multiple customers
Strategic thinking and analytical/quantitative mindset
Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and manage time, multiple tasks, and deadlines effectively
Must have solid communication and presentation skills
Interest in developing strong cross functional partnerships, with a goal to strengthen forecast accuracy and improve business processes
Experience in Microsoft Office: Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, etc.
Occasional travel required
Regular Associate Benefits
Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks – opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs – that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You’ll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword – it’s part of our culture.
Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.
Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.
Flexible Work Schedule
For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced “Work from Anywhere” (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.
Equal Opportunity Employer
New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.