A supply chain planner is in charge of ensuring that a business or organization has enough inventory on hand to meet sales and service goals. Most people in this field have a bachelor’s degree in business, logistics, or a related engineering discipline, though some employers will accept experience in lieu of formal education. A variety of skills are required for the position, including the ability to create a budget and prepare an accurate forecast. The planner is responsible for accurate inventory target estimation and efficient inventory management.
The ability to collaborate with other corporate personnel or outside suppliers, analyze large amounts of data, and engage in extensive planning are all basic skills required for this position. A supply chain planner typically possesses strong math skills and is capable of performing spreadsheet analysis. In order to resolve customer satisfaction, logistics, or production issues in a timely manner, this position requires problem-solving skills. To corporate executives, sales staff, or other company personnel, the individual must also provide production dates and availability of finished goods.
One of the most important aspects of the job is inventory forecasting. This necessitates a tactical approach to inventory management, ensuring that there is always enough inventory on hand, but never too much. Detailed plans that outline accurate and specific material requirements for suppliers and vendors are also required, as well as strategic planning of manufacturing targets, product production, and logistics. When inventory shortages occur, a supply chain planner must also identify and order items from supplemental sources. Creating a distribution plan for a company’s export business may also be part of inventory forecasting.
This job requires managing inventory targets to ensure a consistent level of supply, manufacturing, or product availability, as well as developing and implementing accurate distribution plans. Planners must manage or adjust manufacturing output or inventory levels at the warehouse level to resolve potential product shortages or surpluses. To do so, they’ll need to collaborate closely with suppliers, managers, and other employees to develop unified production plans based on inventory forecasts.