Based in Sandton within the Brand department, the successful incumbent will be responsible for the primary objective is to ensure the efficient and effective forecasting, planning, and allocation of production volumes to meet market demand and business goals. Reporting to the Volume Planning Manager, the position will work with the team to oversee the planning processes, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and drive data-driven decision-making to optimize production schedules and inventory management

Responsibilities

Sales Forecasting: Lead the sales forecasting process using the IVA system to ensure that wholesale and stock reporting aligns closely with a realistic outlook.
Production Planning: Develop and maintain production plans that balance market requirements with manufacturing capabilities, ensuring seamless integration and alignment with business strategies.
Collaboration & Coordination: Work closely with sales, product, and manufacturing departments to synchronize production plans with the sales forecast and product launches/ changes.
Data Management: Oversee the collection, analysis, and interpretation of relevant data to support volume planning decisions and identify opportunities for improvement.
Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and enhance volume planning processes and methodologies to improve accuracy, efficiency, and responsiveness to market changes.
Wholesale & Stock Reporting: Ensure timely and accurate reporting of wholesale and stock data to the Finance department, adhering to set dates and times.
Model Mix Planning: Develop and implement model mix planning strategies for each product to meet market demands and optimize production efficiency.
Reporting & Communication: Provide regular updates, reports and presentations to senior management, highlighting key insights, potential risks, and recommended actions to achieve volume planning objectives.
Systems Reporting: Management of the operation of group systems supporting vehicle planning and ordering functionality (EPL/FPL/NADIN).
Long Term Planning: Lead the planning process using the IVA system and ensure accurate reporting for the retail, wholesale and stock planning.
Product change management: Management of run-out and run-in planning of model types and model derivatives to minimize obsolescence and cost.
IVA system management: Management of the system including liaising with IS on systems requirements, overseeing the admin functionality

Qualification requirements

A formal 3-year National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Finance, Marketing, or Business Management from a recognized institution; a post-graduate qualification would be an added advantage

Experience needed

Minimum 5 years in the automotive industry, preferably in sales, product planning, or volume planning
Ability to analyze complex data and provide logical feedback.
Accuracy in data analysis and reporting under pressure.
Addressing discrepancies and finding effective solutions.
Managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines.
Strong written and verbal skills for conveying plans and updates, with good presentation abilities.
Working effectively with cross-functional teams.
Adjusting strategies to changing market conditions.
Leading and mentoring junior team members, driving process improvements.
Balancing projects, reporting, and ad-hoc tasks efficiently.
Aligning planning strategies with business goals.
Understanding automotive industry dynamics, market trends, and consumer behaviour for informed decision-making.