Demand Forecasting Manager - 18 month secondment/ contract

## Opportunity Review: Regional Demand Forecasting Manager This review aims to provide potential candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the Regional Demand Forecasting Manager opportunity, highlighting its advantages and key considerations for career growth.

This role presents an exciting opportunity for a seasoned forecasting professional to make a significant impact within a global biopharma leader. At its core, the position is responsible for developing robust, unbiased, and comprehensive sales forecasts for a diverse portfolio of SKUs across multiple therapeutic areas. A key focus will be on managing forecasts for Tier 2/3 Markets, intricately linked with the Customer Supply Chain Organisation and Global Supply Chain. The success of this role directly contributes to ensuring optimal inventory levels, thereby enhancing working capital efficiency and customer service levels.

### Key Advantages for Your Career Path: * **Strategic Influence & Impact:** You will be at the forefront of the volume forecasting process, driving tangible improvements in forecast accuracy, bias reduction, and working capital. This is a critical function that directly influences business decisions across commercial, finance, and supply chain. * **Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership:** This role demands close collaboration with various departments, including Commercial, Finance, and the Centre of Excellence. You will have the opportunity to hone your influencing skills and lead discussions within key commercial cycle meetings such as Pre-Demand Review, Demand Review, and Regional S&OP forums. * **Innovation & Digital Transformation:** The position is instrumental in driving the adoption of AI forecasting and contributing to the implementation of new systems, tools, and processes as part of a significant Global Supply Chain Transformation for Europe. This offers exposure to cutting-edge supply chain technologies and methodologies. * **Risk Management & Scenario Planning:** You will be responsible for managing risks and opportunities, developing scenarios to aid strategic decision-making. This includes navigating product lifecycle changes and portfolio adjustments, providing a dynamic and challenging environment. * **Global Exposure & Market Dynamics:** While focusing on specific market tiers, the role provides insights into global supply chain operations and the complex market dynamics that influence demand forecasting, particularly within the pharmaceutical sector. ### Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates: * **Foundational Requirements:** A strong academic background in Economics, Supply Chain, Business, Logistics, Engineering, or a related field is essential, complemented by practical experience. A proven track record in commercial sales, marketing, demand forecasting, or finance operations, preferably within the pharmaceutical industry, is highly valued. * **Analytical Prowess:** The ability to analyze complex data, identify key impact drivers, and visualize information effectively is paramount. You will be expected to evaluate forecast value-added and propose data-driven improvements. * **Promoting Transparency & Accountability:** A core aspect of the role involves fostering a "one number" mindset, ensuring forecast transparency and functional accountability across the organization. This requires strong communication and change management skills. * **Proactive & Self-Initiated:** The role demands a high degree of initiative and the ability to work independently, plan effectively, and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. * **Preferred Skills for Enhanced Success:** While not strictly required, possessing a Supply Chain Professional Qualification, excellent English communication skills (with fluency in other European languages being a significant advantage), and strong interpersonal skills to lead cross-functional teams and influence at all levels will significantly enhance your candidacy. Experience with supply chain forecasting software systems (like SAP APO or OMP) and statistical forecasting is also a strong asset.

This Regional Demand Forecasting Manager position is an excellent platform for an ambitious professional seeking to advance their career in supply chain management, particularly within the innovative and impactful biopharmaceutical industry. By demonstrating strong analytical skills, a collaborative approach, and a commitment to driving forecast excellence, candidates can significantly contribute to GSK's mission and achieve their professional development goals.