The Demand Planning Manager oversees the purchasing of product into all Distribution Centers and Retail locations, ensuring inventory levels are optimized and out of stocks are limited. Lead Demand Planning team to ensure strategic goals, projects and daily processes are attained in a timely manner.

Responsibilities:

• Manage demand planning team located in Galesburg and Highland Park.
• Lead the team in use of AWR forecasting system, establishing, developing, and maintaining the proper system control factors.
• Ensure inventory levels in Distribution Centers and Retail locations are at an optimum with limited out of stocks and limited excess inventory.
• Collaborate with entire team in the resolution of issues within the supply chain or specific vendors.
• Provide clear direction to the planning team for efficient buying practices to all facilities.
• Oversee and evaluate Demand Planners in the quality of execution of their day-to-day processes, providing guidance and feedback, and developing skillsets across the team.
• Develop training and work standards in cooperation with the Sr. Demand Planners for the entire planning team.
• Identify areas of opportunity in the demand planning process, develop creative solutions and lead the team on the implementations of improvement.
• Work closely with top tier vendors to maintain strong working relationships, operational efficiencies and competitive advantages in our industry.
• Collaborate with Merchandising, Marketing and Sales teams to prepare for promotions and new sales demand.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• 6+ years of Supply Chain, Forecasting or Business experience.
• 3+ years of management experience

 Skill Requirements:

• Strong Excel skills
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Above average verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to communicate with all levels of the organization.
• Dependable, self-motivated and results oriented.
• Experience with Blue Yonder products, specifically MMS and AWR/E3.

Founded in 1911, Blick Art Materials is in its third generation of family ownership, and is the largest and oldest provider of art supplies in the United States.

At Blick Art Materials, our family owners and dedicated staff support the Visual Art Community by providing the widest selection of art supplies at the lowest prices. With extraordinary service and integrity, we strive to provide artists, educators, students, and our employees with the tools, assistance, and training they need to grow, innovate, and reach their creative potential.