Subject Matter Expert

Role Purpose

To drive integrated demand forecasting, supply planning, and inventory optimization across Raw Materials (RM), Packaging Materials (PM), and Finished Goods (FG), ensuring high service levels, optimal working capital, and minimized inventory risks (expiry, obsolescence, conversion) across plant, CFA, and job work (JW) network.

Key Responsibilities

A. Demand Planning (FG)

• Develop SKU-level demand forecasts using historical data, seasonality, and market intelligence
• Lead demand planning cycles (weekly & monthly) as part of S&OP process
• Collaborate with Sales & Commercial teams for:
  • New product launches
  • Promotions & institutional demand
• Track forecast accuracy and continuously improve forecasting models

B. RM & PM Planning

• Plan procurement requirements for RM (crude/refined oil, pulses) and PM (packaging materials) based on production plan
• Ensure timely availability of materials to avoid production disruptions
• Monitor RM/PM inventory levels, lead times, and supplier performance
• Work closely with procurement and vendors to align supply schedules

C. Supply Planning (Production & Deployment)

• Convert demand plan into a feasible supply plan considering:
  • Plant capacity constraints
  • Production cycles
  • Lead times
• Coordinate with plant teams for production scheduling and execution
• Ensure optimal stock availability across plant, CFA, and JW locations

D. Inventory Planning & Optimization

• Monitor and manage inventory across RM, PM, and FG
• Set and track inventory norms (safety stock, reorder level, days of cover)
• Identify and mitigate risks:
  • Slow-moving & non-moving inventory
  • Expiry risk (critical for edible oil & pulses)
  • Conversion (e.g., finished goods to loose oil)
• Drive initiatives to reduce working capital and improve inventory turns

E. Network & Deployment Planning

• Balance inventory across multi-location network (plant CFA JW)
• Plan stock transfers and deployment based on demand and priority markets
• Ensure availability without overstocking at CFA level

F. S&OP  Governance

• Support structured planning cadence:
  • Demand Review
  • Supply Review
  • Inventory Reconciliation
• Prepare planning dashboards, scenarios, and exception reports for management

G. ERP Systems, Data & MIS (SAP Mandatory), MS-Office

H. Stakeholder Management

• Collaborate cross-functionally with:
  • Sales & Marketing (demand inputs)
  • Plant / Manufacturing (production planning)
  • Procurement (RM/PM sourcing)
  • Logistics (dispatch execution)
  • Finance (working capital & cost control)
• Act as a central planning coordinator across functions

Qualification

Qualifications & Experience

• Education:
  • B.Tech (preferred) OR MBA (Operations / Supply Chain)
• Experience:
  • Minimum 3+ years in supply chain planning
  • Experience in FMCG / Edible Oil / Pulses / Agri commodities preferred
  • Exposure to RM/PM + FG planning in a manufacturing setup

Additional Information

Must-Have Skills

• Strong SAP hands-on experience (mandatory)
• Advanced Excel & data analysis
• Demand forecasting & inventory planning techniques
• Understanding of S&OP / IBP processes
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability

Good-to-Have

• Experience in GMCG / FMCG environment
• Exposure to multi-location distribution network (plant + CFA model)
• Experience handling high demand variability and new product rollouts

Behavioral Competencies

• Strong stakeholder management across functions
• High ownership and accountability
• Attention to detail (critical for planning accuracy)
• Ability to work in fast-paced, dynamic demand environments
• Strong communication and influencing skills

Diversity & Inclusion

LDC is driven by a set of shared values and high ethical standards, with diversity and inclusion being part of our DNA. LDC is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity, equity and inclusion.

LDC encourages diversity, supports local communities and environmental initiatives. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

Sustainability

Sustainable value is at the heart of our purpose as a company.

We are passionate about creating fair and sustainable value, both for our business and for other value chain stakeholders: our people, our business partners, the communities we touch and the environment around us

What We Offer

We provide a dynamic and stimulating international environment, which will stretch and develop your abilities and channel your skills and expertise with outstanding career development opportunities in one of the largest and most solid private companies in the world.

We offer

• A workplace culture that embraces diversity and inclusivity
• Opportunities for Professional Growth and Development
• Employee Recognition Program
• Employee Wellness Programs - Confidential access to certified counselors for employee and eligible family members, along with monthly wellness awareness sessions.
• Certified Great Place to Work