Demand Planning Manager

About Spindrift

At Spindrift, we’re making every beverage a positive force of nature. Founded in 2010, we believe the best flavors come directly from nature. That’s why every Spindrift beverage is made the hard way—with real squeezed fruit, never from concentrate. From sourcing the best-tasting fruit globally to maintaining a carefully honed manufacturing process, we believe in doing things the hard way, the intentional way, the better albeit more challenging way, the right way – because, in the end, it's worth it. Spindrift® sparkling water is available nationwide, and Spindrift Spiked® hard seltzer and Spindrift SODA are available in select markets. We are also a proud member of 1% for the Planet, donating to environmental causes. Spindrift is headquartered in Newton, MA.

The Demand Planning Manager Role

Reporting to the Director of Supply Chain, the Demand Planner will be responsible for developing accurate demand forecasts and supporting the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process to ensure optimal inventory levels, efficient supply chain operations, and alignment with business objectives. This role will collaborate closely with sales, marketing, operations, and finance teams to drive strategic decision-making for our direct-to-retailer beverage distribution model.

Responsibilities

• Demand Forecasting: Develop and maintain accurate demand forecasts for the beverage portfolio using historical data, market trends, and input from sales and marketing teams.
• S&OP Leadership: Lead and facilitate the S&OP process, ensuring alignment between demand forecasts, production plans, inventory levels, and sales strategies.
• Data Analysis: Analyze sales data, promotional activities, seasonality, and market trends to refine forecasting models and improve accuracy.
• Collaboration: Partner with sales, marketing, and supply chain teams to incorporate new product launches, promotions, and retailer demands into forecasts.
• Inventory Optimization: Work with warehouse and supply chain teams to ensure optimal inventory levels to meet retailer demand while minimizing excess stock and stockouts.
• Performance Monitoring: Track and report on forecast accuracy, identifying gaps and implementing corrective actions to improve future predictions.
• Process Improvement: Continuously enhance demand planning and S&OP processes, leveraging industry best practices and technology to drive efficiency.
• Reporting: Provide regular reports and insights to senior management on demand trends, risks, and opportunities to support strategic decision-making.
• Technology Utilization: Leverage demand planning software and ERP systems to streamline forecasting and S&OP processes.

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of demand planning experience in a consumer products company, preferably in the beverage or food industry.
• S&OP Expertise: Proven experience leading or participating in Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) processes.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field; advanced degree or certification (e.g., APICS, CPIM) is a plus.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in demand planning software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle Demantra, or similar) and ERP systems; advanced Excel skills required.
• Analytical Skills: Strong ability to analyze complex data sets, identify trends, and translate insights into actionable plans.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate across departments and present insights to leadership.
• Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with the beverage industry, including seasonality, promotional cycles, and direct-to-retailer distribution models.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to identifying and resolving demand and supply chain challenges.
• Detail-Oriented: Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with national retailers and understanding their demand patterns.
• Knowledge of warehouse operations and direct-to-retailer supply chain dynamics.
• Familiarity with advanced analytics or machine learning tools for demand forecasting.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a fast-growing beverage company with a strong presence in the national retail market.
• Collaborate with a passionate team dedicated to delivering high-quality products to consumers.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
• Dynamic and innovative work environment with a focus on operational excellence.

The salary range for this position is $110,000 to $130,000 and is dependent upon the candidate’s experience prior to joining Spindrift. In addition, we offer the following compensation and benefits:

• Short-term incentive programs specific to level and department.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with a current employer contribution rate of 80% towards monthly premiums, regardless of plan type selected.
• Company-paid life insurance, and a 401k retirement savings plan with a company match.
• Monthly cell phone allowance.
• Annual allowances for personal use of Spindrift product, health and wellness, professional development, and social justice education.
• A host of voluntary benefits including but not limited to additional life insurance, short-term disability and long-term disability insurance.
• In addition to any paid leave benefits required by regulation, the company provides paid parental leave, vacation, sick, personal, bereavement, community service, and holiday time.