Demand Planning Lead

M-KOPA Kenya is a FinTech company founded in 2011, based in Nairobi, Kenya. It specializes in providing financial services, often associated with pay-as-you-go solar products and other essential services.

The Demand Planning Lead at M-KOPA Kenya is responsible for spearheading the demand planning process. This involves developing precise forecasts through the analysis of market trends, past performance data, sales contributions, and key demand drivers. The role requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams to achieve optimal inventory levels, guarantee timely product availability, mitigate cost exposure, and enhance overall operational efficiency. The successful candidate will be tasked with maintaining robust forecasting models, continuously monitoring forecast accuracy, proposing necessary corrective actions, and consistently refining demand planning processes to align with and support the company's strategic business objectives.

1. Develop, maintain, and continuously improve demand forecast models using historical data, sales trends, market insights, and business assumptions.
2. Lead the monthly demand planning cycle, including forecast reviews, exception-based planning, and SKU-level forecast submissions.
3. Establish and monitor forecast accuracy metrics, analyze forecast variances, and communicate corrective actions to relevant stakeholders.
4. Communicate forecast, inventory, and demand assumptions clearly to management and cross-functional teams to support informed decision-making.
5. Monitor and report significant changes in sales forecasts, budgets, promotions, seasonal demand, new product introductions, and business strategies.
6. Support inventory planning by identifying demand risks, supply constraints, slow-moving items, and opportunities to optimize safety stock levels.
7. Conduct root-cause analysis on forecast discrepancies and demand-related issues, ensuring timely resolution and mitigation actions.
8. Facilitate regular forecast review meetings with commercial, finance, supply chain, and management teams to align demand plans with business priorities.
9. Contribute to annual budget planning by providing demand forecasts, sales trend analysis, and cost optimization insights.
10. Maintain demand planning processes, tools, and reporting routines to improve forecasting discipline, planning visibility, and operational performance.

1. A recognized degree in Statistics, Economics, Mathematics, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.
2. Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in demand planning, forecasting, inventory planning, or supply chain analysis.
3. Strong understanding of inventory management principles, demand planning processes, and supply chain operations.
4. Strong analytical, mathematical, and statistical skills, with the ability to interpret data and identify demand patterns.
5. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and working knowledge of integrated supply chain, ERP, or demand planning systems.
6. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present forecasts, risks, and recommendations clearly.
7. Strong business acumen, strategic thinking, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail.
8. Customer- and market-focused, with the ability to respond effectively to changing business priorities.
9. Ability to multitask and deliver accurate outputs in a fast-paced environment.