Demand & Supply Planner | Retail | ACE Hardware

Job Requisition ID: 183390

About Al-Futtaim
Established in the 1930s, Al-Futtaim is one of the most diversified and progressive privately held regional businesses, headquartered in Dubai. Operating across more than 20 countries, the Group spans automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and health. With more than 40,000 employees, Al-Futtaim represents over 200 of the world’s most recognised brands, including Toyota, Lexus, IKEA, ACE and Marks & Spencer. Driven by its purpose to enrich lives and elevate communities, Al-Futtaim focuses on digital innovation, AI, sustainable growth and strategic partnerships, creating long-term value for customers, communities and partners while building a responsible legacy for future generations.

Overview Of The Role:

• The Demand & Supply Planner manages, balances, and analyzes demand and supply within the supply chain, utilizing advanced analytical and optimization techniques. The role involves developing, communicating, and executing product demand and supply plans across distribution channels in the GCC Region, collaborating with Commercial, Marketing, Finance, and Store Operations. Key purposes include optimizing forecast accuracy, planning inventory flows, and driving continuous improvement through processes and analysis. The role requires implementing the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process to align global improvement efforts across ACE and Homeworks.
What You Will Do:

Demand and Supply Management

• Forecast demand, inventory, and multi-channel sell through.
• Generate weekly, monthly and yearly supply plans that meet ACE & Homeworks financial objectives.
• Evaluate risks and plan contingency plans to mitigate any issues.
• Create baseline forecasts while maintaining data and forecast integrity.
• Conduct monthly forecast maintenance and address demand-related issues promptly.
• Use AI/ML techniques for forecasting and demand planning.

Replenishment and Capacity Planning

• Plan and monitor replenishment across the Distribution Centre network, stores, and online.
• Maintain capacity plans to ensure efficient delivery of inventory and service.
• Correct replenishment parameters regularly to conform to business levels.
• Lead supply planning process and analyze trends impacting product launches and promotions.
• Define forecast and replenishment process for new product introduction.
• Provide supply planning expertise for new products and inventory shortage resolution.

Process Improvement and Planning

• Build Power Users in Supply Planning for continuous improvement of inventory policies.
• Implement and conduct monthly S&OP cycles across departments.
• Schedule necessary meetings with stakeholders regularly to discuss supply and demand.
• Monitor monthly aging stock level and develop liquidating strategies with the Buying team.
• Assist in developing annual budgets and cost-effectiveness initiatives.
• Maintain training materials and organize training sessions for team members.

Required Skills To Be Successful:

• Advanced proficiency in planning software/tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to influence and collaborate within a matrix structure.
• Proficiency in inventory management and replenishment processes.
What Qualifies You For The Role:

• Bachelor’s Degree required with a minimum of 3+ years of planning experience.
• Master’s degree desired.
• Knowledge of demand & supply planning processes, general supply chain knowledge.
• Experience in product planning, production control, inventory management, or manufacturing operations.
• Project management skills are desirable.
• Experience with ERP systems, preferably SAP, and advanced planning tools.
• Advanced system proficiency with SAP & JDA experience is advantageous.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to influence in a matrix environment.
• Proven experience with planning software/tools and merchandise management systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional partners and senior management.
About Al-Futtaim Retail

At Al-Futtaim Retail, we are part of a 90-year legacy built on ambition, progress and long-term vision. As one of the region’s leading retail operators, we partner with some of the world’s most trusted brands – including IKEA, ACE, Marks & Spencer and the Inditex Group – bringing global excellence to customers across MENA and Southeast Asia.

We don’t just operate stores; we shape retail experiences. From launching brands like Watsons and Kiabi to our regions for the first time, to investing in digital innovation, AI capabilities, the customer experience and loyalty platforms, we are constantly redefining the future of retail.

With over 100 nationalities spread across more than 10 countries, our strength lies in our diverse and collaborative community. Here, you’re equipped to turn your ambition into action, building the career you want, while helping us move retail forwards.

Join us and be part of The Heart of Tomorrow.