Job Description
The Demand Planning & Market Insights Manager will lead forecasting, data analytics, and market research to drive strategic planning and commercial excellence. This role plays a critical part in aligning demand, portfolio strategy, and market intelligence with business growth objectives.
Responsibilities
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Lead the Demand Planning & Market Insights function, ensuring accurate and timely execution of the commercial planning process
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Develop demand forecasts (operational and strategic) at multiple aggregation levels and time horizons.
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Provide inputs to Supply Planning for inventory strategies related to existing products, new launches, and product phase-outs.
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Continuously refine systems, tools, and processes to improve forecast accuracy and better anticipate customer needs.
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Utilize statistical and AI-based forecasting models to enhance demand accuracy and efficiency
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Support the portfolio managers with latest market insights and data analytics to make informed decisions
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Manage relationships with market research (MR) agencies for activities such as FGDs, farmer interviews (F2F or telephonic), mystery shopping, and impact assessments.
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Design and execute in-house research and analysis aligned with business objectives
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Understand business objectives and design market research to discover prospective customers’ preferences
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Conduct competitive analysis covering market trends, share, pricing, imports, and sales.
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Compile, analyze, and interpret statistical data to generate actionable insights and recommendations
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Lead the annual budgeting process and the 5-year planning process in alignment with Country Leadership Team (CLT) and Regional Marketing Leadership Team (RMLT).
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Align forecasts and budgets with market realities and strategic goals.
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Collaborate with Portfolio teams for iterative budget planning and finalization.
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Maintain and manage the I-Plan databank for data uploads/downloads, and deliver insights on key market drivers to support data-driven decision-making across the organization
Qualifications
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Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agriculture, Marketing, Business Studies, or a related field.
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8+ years of experience in a similar role within a multinational or agriculture-related organization.
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Strong expertise in demand planning, market intelligence, and managing large datasets.
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Hands-on experience with forecasting tools, statistical models, and AI-driven analytics.
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Experience working with market research agencies and conducting field-level primary research.
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Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to engage cross-functional teams, external partners, and industry stakeholders.
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Proven ability to lead teams through change, foster collaboration, and build a performance-driven culture.
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Strong analytical thinking, presentation, and decision-making skills.
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Fluency in English with excellent written and verbal communication.