Assist in developing and maintaining accurate demand forecasts using historical data, sales inputs, and market trends. Translate demand into a feasible supply plan.

Monitor inventory levels (raw materials, WIP, finished goods) to ensure target service levels (e.g., 95-98% OTIF) while minimizing excess and obsolete (E&O) stock.

Coordinate with manufacturing units to create short- to mid-term production schedules. Ensure timely availability of materials for batch production.

Generate and track purchase orders for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, and packaging components. Follow up with suppliers for on-time delivery.

Prepare daily/weekly reports on key metrics: stockout risk, slow-moving inventory, shelf-life expiry, and production adherence.

Work closely with Quality Assurance (QA), Regulatory Affairs (RA), Warehouse, and Sales teams to resolve supply constraints, product launches, or phase-outs.

Ensure planning activities comply with GDP (Good Distribution Practices), GMP, and internal SOPs. Participate in deviation investigations related to inventory or planning errors.

Maintain planning parameters in ERP system.

Lead the monthly Sales & Operations Planning process for assigned product families. Facilitate demand-supply reconciliation meetings and escalate risks to leadership.

Develop statistical baseline forecasts using tools like time-series analysis, machine learning (where applicable), or promotional modeling. Analyze demand variability and adjust safety stock strategies.

Set and monitor inventory targets (DSI – Days Sales of Inventory). Lead initiatives to reduce E&O, write-off risk, and improve inventory turns without compromising patient access.

Identify potential supply disruptions (e.g., raw material shortages, capacity constraints, regulatory holds) and create contingency plans (alternative suppliers, re-routing, air freight).

Lead planning for new product launches, product transfers, site changes, and lifecycle management (e.g., line extensions, discontinuations). Coordinate with RA for submission timelines and launch quantities.

Drive continuous improvement projects (e.g., lead time reduction, batch size optimization, ERP automation). Implement best practices in planning (e.g., Kanban, VMI for packaging).

Train and guide junior planners and specialists on planning tools, SOPs, and supply chain KPIs. Review their work for accuracy.

Represent planning function in internal/external audits (FDA, EMA, MHRA). Ensure planning records and justifications are inspection-ready.