Planner I

General Purpose

This role will be responsible for daily tactical operations within DSD Planning across multiple functions. These functions consist of Distribution Planning/Merchandising Planning/ and Sales & Logistics Planning. This role will be responsible for executing the strategic operational plans that have been created to support the Go To Market Strategy across each function supporting a local Bottler. The Planner position will need to ensure the execution of the routes are accurate, timely, and achieve optimal cost parameters. This individual must display a highly collaborative skill set in working cross functionally across DSD Planning in the following areas:

Duties and Responsibilities

Distribution Planning:

• Perform regular audits and strategic analysis of data integrity, planning session quality, and process compliance to support effective and efficient distribution planning. Act as Subject Matter Expert (SME) on end-to-end Distribution Planning systems as well as our standardized planning process. Lead, implement, and successfully execute projects that transform and continuously improve the Distribution Planning function. Provide coverage for the Distribution Planning Center as necessary. Provide effective training for Distribution Planning team members, confirming the knowledge transfer has taken place and is being successfully executed. Develop, communicate, and ensure successful execution of action plans which support our strategic partnership with Field Operations teams. Support Distribution Planning Supervisor to build the Core Capabilities of their individual team members. Actively participate in the development, implementation, validation and adherence to standard processes.

Merchandising Planning:

• Execute the core capabilities of merchandising planning and deliver high performing results. Support and execute the standardized processes for Merchandising Planning. Collaborate and communicate weekly schedules that support strategic plans with business partners and enable profitable growth of merchandising through optimal utilization of labor. Understand and lead the execution of planning processes and to educate the field. Build schedules that align strategic goals and operational needs each week, delivering positive business results. Expert on the end to end Merchandising Planning routines and systems to ensure data accuracy and optimal use of the applications. Identify opportunities for improvement for overall quality input.

Sales & Logistics Planning:

• Ensure data accuracy through adherence to governance standards. Create and maintain MDM tactical plans that align strategic goals and operational needs, delivering business results. Execute and sustain Sales and Logistics Planning standard processes. Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and develop and execute solutions to achieve company goals. Build and collaborative relationships with business partners. Utilize technology to its fullest potential. Actively engage in activities that promote personal development and enhance capabilities and skill sets.

Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma Required. Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of purchasing or planning responsibilities.
• Must have strong analytical skills and have the ability to work with Mathematical concepts. Must have knowledge of Microsoft Office, Access, Excel, PowerPoint) advanced to proficient level of expertise preferred. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Must have strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in working in a client service environment, preferred. Understanding of operational excellence principles, tools, and methodologies, preferred. APICS certification preferred.