Responsibilities:

• System Configuration and Maintenance –
• Configure and maintain the Kinaxis RapidResponse system to support various planning processes, including demand planning, supply planning, inventory optimization, and capacity planning
• Configure data models, workflows, dashboards, and reports to meet specific business requirements and user needs
• Ensure data integrity and accuracy within the Kinaxis system by implementing data validation checks and error handling mechanisms
Data Management and Integration –
• Manage data integration processes between the Kinaxis RapidResponse platform and other enterprise systems, such as ERP, PLM, and BI systems as well as external market signals
• Ensure seamless data flow and synchronization between Kinaxis and external data sources to support real-time planning and decision-making
Data Analysis –
• Analyze datasets using statistical methods and data analysis techniques to perform regression analysis, hypothesis testing, draw meaningful conclusions, and provide actionable insights, ensuring data quality and consistency
Process Optimization and Improvement –
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process improvement and optimization within integrated planning processes
• Analyze existing workflows, identify bottlenecks, and propose enhancements to streamline planning activities, improve efficiency, and reduce cycle times
• Implement best practices and industry standards for integrated planning using the Kinaxis platform
Cross-Functional Collaboration –
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Demand Planning, Supply Planning, Supply Chain Procurement & Operations, Sales, Finance, and IT to gather requirements, define system configurations, and ensure alignment of planning processes with organizational goals
• Serve as a subject matter expert on the Kinaxis platform, providing guidance, training, and support to end users across different functional areas
Risk Management and Mitigation –
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans to address potential disruptions and ensure business continuity within the planning process
• Identify supply chain risks and vulnerabilities using Kinaxis’s analytics and visualization capabilities
Performance Monitoring and Reporting –
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics related to integrated planning processes using the Kinaxis RapidResponse platform
• Ensure that the platform meets the agreed upon availability and processing SLAs
• Generate reports, dashboards, and scorecards to track performance, highlight areas for improvement, and communicate insights to stakeholders at all levels of the organization
Project Management and Product Ownership –
• Lead Kinaxis implementation projects, upgrades, and system enhancements, coordinating activities with internal teams, external vendors, and consultants
• Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to other analysts and end users to build expertise and capabilities in using the Kinaxis platform for integrated planning
Continuous Learning and Development –
• Stay updated on the latest features, functionalities, and best practices related to the Kinaxis RapidResponse platform through training, certifications, and participation in user communities
• Share knowledge and insights with colleagues and stakeholders to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement in integrated planning processes

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of wholesale and retail merchandise planning; footwear and/or apparel industry experience highly desired.
• 7+ years of comprehensive expertise in supply chain management principles encompassing demand forecasting, inventory management, production planning, and distribution logistics. Understand the intricacies of end-to-end supply chain processes and their interdependencies. Demonstrate proficiency in supply chain concepts, including supply chain planning, procurement, production scheduling, and distribution logistics. Able to seamlessly integrate demand planning activities with other supply chain functions to ensure alignment and synchronization.
• 5+ years of expertise in demand planning systems and tools, including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Demand Planning software; Kinaxis RapidResponse preferred. Proficient in data manipulation, extraction, and analysis using SQL, Excel, and other relevant tools. Also adept in supply planning systems and tools such as ERP systems and Supply Chain Management (SCM) platforms.
• Advanced level knowledge of various supply planning methodologies such as Material Requirements Planning (MRP), Master Production Scheduling (MPS), and Inventory Optimization techniques. Skilled in developing and executing supply plans that effectively balance production capacity, inventory levels, and customer demand.
• Experienced in evaluating forecast accuracy metrics and implementing strategies to improve forecast performance. Able to identify and address forecast bias, variability, and error sources to enhance forecast accuracy.
• High level of data literacy; ability to understand and explain to stakeholders the role of specific data subjects and processes necessary to support Demand and Supply Planning, and the ability to integrate those planning activities.
• Excellent data and process requirement definition skills, including the ability to define preconditions, post-conditions, tolerances, exception handling, and notification processes necessary to support and improve planning business operations.
• Demonstrated understanding of mathematical, statistical, and analytical concepts; optimally, an understanding of the data structures necessary to support those functions.
• Strong technical skills, including the ability to adopt new technology with agility and the ability to mentor others on the use of new technology solutions.
• Experience with leveraging data visualization and reporting tools to drive insights and decision-making.

Competencies and Characteristics:

• Business Acumen: Understanding of business operations, industry trends, and market dynamics. Ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions and vice versa, ensuring alignment between technology initiatives and strategic objectives.
• Integrated Planning Expertise: Deep understanding of integrated planning processes and planning systems, including financial planning, demand forecasting, supply chain management, and resource allocation. Ability to develop and implement integrated planning strategies that optimize organizational performance.
• System Integration and Customization: Excels in integrating and customizing enterprise applications to meet specific business requirements, leveraging advanced configuration, scripting, and development skills. Designs and implements complex integrations between different systems, ensuring seamless data flow and interoperability across the enterprise ecosystem.
• Project Management: Strong project management skills, including the ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage project timelines and budgets, and mitigate risks effectively. Experience with Agile or other project management methodologies is a plus.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to identify problems - considering the interconnectedness of system components and their broader impact, evaluate options, and make informed decisions. Experience resolving complex issues and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Data Analysis Skills: Ability to analyze large datasets using statistical methods and data visualization techniques. Proficiency in tools like Excel, SQL, and data visualization platforms to extract insights from data and present findings to stakeholders
• Learning agility: able to ramp up quickly on new technologies, leveraging existing knowledge and learning patterns
• Able to work effectively in a team environment and lead cross-functional team discussions and assessments
• Able to articulate ideas and concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders