Demand Planner/Buyer

Position Summary

The Demand Planner / Buyer / Inventory Control Specialist is responsible for developing accurate demand forecasts for the Salt Lake City (SLC) distribution center while partnering closely with Demand Planners and Buyers in Memphis to execute purchasing strategies by product line. This role ensures optimal inventory levels are maintained across both SLC and Memphis locations to support customer demand, minimize costs, and achieve targeted service levels.

In addition, this position plays a critical role in inventory accuracy and control within a fast-paced distribution environment. Responsibilities include performing cycle counts, researching and reconciling inventory variances, maintaining accurate inventory records, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and capable of balancing forecasting, purchasing, and inventory control responsibilities in a dynamic warehouse and supply chain environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Demand Planning & Purchasing

• Develop, maintain, and analyze product demand forecasts for the SLC location using historical sales data, market trends, and business inputs.
• Execute purchasing activities, including the creation and management of purchase orders for direct shipments and combination buys.
• Monitor purchase order status and supplier delivery performance to ensure timely replenishment.
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels and safety stock to prevent out of stocks and excess inventory.
• Collaborate with Memphis Demand Planners/Buyers, Sales, Operations, and Supply Chain teams to align forecasts and inventory strategies with business objectives.
• Measure forecast accuracy and implement improvements to enhance planning effectiveness.
• Identify potential supply chain risks and proactively develop mitigation plans.
• Monitor supplier performance and escalate issues impacting service, quality, or delivery.

Inventory Control

• Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly cycle counts across designated warehouse locations.
• Investigate and reconcile inventory discrepancies by reviewing system transactions, auditing physical inventory, and collaborating with receiving, picking, and shipping teams.
• Document count results and accurately update inventory records within company systems.
• Analyze inventory variances and identify root causes to support corrective and preventive actions.
• Ensure proper product labeling, bin accuracy, and inventory placement to maintain inventory integrity.
• Assist with physical inventory counts, audits, and inventory-related projects.
• Utilize RF scanners, handheld devices, and inventory management systems to verify and track inventory movements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment that supports accurate inventory management.
• Comply with all company safety policies, procedures, and standard operating practices.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2-5 years of experience in demand planning, purchasing, procurement, inventory management, or related supply chain functions.
• Experience managing inventory within a distribution, warehouse, or logistics environment preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency with ERP, MRP, warehouse management, and inventory control systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including data analysis and reporting.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Basic mathematical and computer skills, including data entry and spreadsheet management.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand or walk for extended periods, as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with demand planning, forecasting, and inventory optimization software.
• Demonstrated success in a high-volume distribution or supply chain environment.
• Effective communication, negotiation, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Forklift and/or pallet jack certification.
• Knowledge of Lean, Continuous Improvement, or inventory management best practices.

What You'll Do

• Build and maintain accurate demand forecasts to support customer requirements.
• Create, manage, and track purchase orders to ensure product availability.
• Balance inventory investments while minimizing stockouts and excess inventory.
• Maintain inventory accuracy through cycle counting and variance resolution.
• Collaborate with Sales, Operations, Supply Chain, and warehouse teams to support business objectives.
• Analyze data and identify opportunities to improve forecasting, purchasing, and inventory performance.

Key Success Measures

• Forecast accuracy
• Inventory turns and carrying costs
• Service levels and product availability
• Inventory accuracy and cycle count results
• Purchase order and supplier performance metrics
• Continuous improvement contributions and process efficiencies