Demand Planning Officer

M-KOPA is a FinTech company founded in 2011, based in Nairobi, Kenya. It specializes in providing financial services and pay-as-you-go solar solutions to customers.

The Demand Planning Officer plays a crucial role in the supply chain, ensuring the continuous availability of necessary materials and components for business operations. This involves managing inventory levels, coordinating purchase orders, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers to prevent stockouts and operational delays. The officer will also be responsible for accurate data entry into the integrated supply chain system, resolving any discrepancies related to orders and deliveries, and ensuring compliance with company policies and industry standards.

1. Create, manage, and track purchase orders for materials and components required for production, projects, and supply chain operations.
2. Liaise with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials, resolve order discrepancies, and maintain effective supplier relationships.
3. Monitor inventory levels and initiate replenishment actions promptly to reduce stockouts, excess inventory, and operational delays.
4. Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, deliveries, order changes, supplier communication, and material-related issues.
5. Ensure ordered materials and components meet company quality standards, approved specifications, and relevant regulatory requirements.
6. Enter and update order details in the integrated supply chain system, ensuring accuracy of pricing, quantities, item details, and delivery schedules.
7. Investigate and resolve order discrepancies, including incorrect items, delayed deliveries, quantity variances, and quality concerns.
8. Ensure procurement-related activities comply with company policies, approval procedures, and relevant industry standards.
9. Monitor and report on available stock levels in the market to support planning, replenishment, and dispatch decisions.
10. Identify and analyze sales trends, demand patterns, and other material planning variables, incorporating insights into forecasting, inventory planning, and safety stock processes.
11. Perform other related duties as assigned in line with the role’s purpose and business needs.

1. A recognized degree in Statistics, Economics, Supply Chain Management, or an equivalent field.
2. Minimum of 1 year of experience in demand planning, forecasting, inventory planning, procurement coordination, or supply chain operations.
3. Solid understanding of inventory management practices, demand planning, and replenishment processes.
4. Knowledge of integrated supply chain systems and accurate system data maintenance.
5. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales trends, stock data, and planning variables.
6. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools.
7. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
8. Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
9. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to follow up actions to closure.