Demand Planner at Sysco Belfast: Shape the Future of Foodservice

Sysco, a global leader in foodservice distribution, is expanding its presence in Northern Ireland with a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility in Belfast. This is a transformative step, bringing enhanced capacity, efficiency, and exciting career growth opportunities. We are seeking a passionate and driven Demand Planner to join our dynamic team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of foodservice across the island of Ireland.

Role Overview

As a Demand Planner, you will be instrumental in ensuring product availability within our distribution system to support Sysco's commercial strategy and meet the service requirements of our valued customers. You will be responsible for accurately forecasting demand, optimizing inventory levels, and collaborating with suppliers to maintain a seamless supply chain. This role demands a proactive individual with a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and a passion for delivering results.

A Day in the Life of a Demand Planner at Sysco Belfast

Here's a glimpse into your daily responsibilities:

• Forecasting & Analysis: Analyze historical sales data, market trends, and promotional activities to develop accurate demand forecasts.
• Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels, identify potential shortages or overages, and implement strategies to optimize stock holding.
• Supplier Collaboration: Work closely with suppliers to ensure effective product supply, resolve any supply chain issues, and maintain strong relationships.
• Reporting & Communication: Prepare and present reports on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to demand planning, communicate forecast changes to relevant stakeholders, and participate in cross-functional meetings.
• Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and improve demand planning processes and systems to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Promotional Planning: Liaise with the Replenishment Manager on orders for promotions and forward buys, ensuring adequate stock levels to meet increased demand.
• Waste Reduction: Interpret sales reports and data to minimize markdowns, overstocks, freeze down, and dump, contributing to department profitability.

Why Belfast?

Belfast is a vibrant and growing city with a rich history and a bright future. It offers a high quality of life, affordable living costs, and a thriving cultural scene. Sysco's new facility in Belfast represents a significant investment in the region, creating numerous job opportunities and contributing to the local economy. By joining our team in Belfast, you'll be part of something big, helping to shape the future of foodservice in Northern Ireland and beyond.

Career Path & Growth Opportunities

Sysco is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for professional development and career advancement. As a Demand Planner, you can progress to roles such as Senior Demand Planner, Demand Planning Manager, or Supply Chain Manager. We offer a range of training and development programs to help you enhance your skills and knowledge, and we encourage our employees to take on new challenges and explore different career paths within the company.

Salary & Benefits

Sysco offers a competitive salary and benefits package that includes:

• Competitive Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous allowance for vacation, sick leave, and personal days.
• Retirement Plan: 401k or equivalent with company match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan: Opportunity to invest in Sysco's success.
• Life Insurance: Company-paid life insurance coverage.
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.
• Wellness Programs: Initiatives to promote employee health and well-being.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education.

Sysco Culture

At Sysco, we foster a culture of teamwork, respect, and innovation. We are passionate about delivering exceptional service to our customers and creating a positive impact in the communities we serve. We value diversity and inclusion, and we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive. Our core values include:

• Integrity: We act with honesty and transparency in all our dealings.
• Excellence: We strive for excellence in everything we do.
• Teamwork: We work together to achieve common goals.
• Customer Focus: We put our customers first in everything we do.
• Innovation: We embrace new ideas and technologies.

How to Apply

If you are a passionate, ambitious, and driven individual who wants to be part of a team shaping the future of foodservice, we encourage you to apply for the Demand Planner position at Sysco Belfast. Please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the key responsibilities of a Demand Planner?
   The key responsibilities include forecasting demand, managing inventory levels, collaborating with suppliers, and analyzing sales data.
2. What qualifications are required for this role?
   Excellent PC skills, strong systems knowledge, proficiency in Microsoft Excel, and strong numerical and analytical skills are required. Knowledge of AX or other ERP systems and MRP concepts is advantageous.
3. What is the work environment like at Sysco?
   Sysco fosters a culture of teamwork, respect, and innovation. We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment.
4. What are the career advancement opportunities at Sysco?
   Sysco offers numerous opportunities for professional development and career advancement. As a Demand Planner, you can progress to roles such as Senior Demand Planner, Demand Planning Manager, or Supply Chain Manager.
5. What is the salary and benefits package offered by Sysco?
   Sysco offers a competitive salary and benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, employee stock purchase plan, and more.
6. Where is the Sysco Belfast facility located?
   The new Sysco Belfast facility is located at Nutts Corner, Co. Antrim. New team members will initially be based at our Lisburn Depot on Hillhall Road before relocating to the Belfast facility later this year.
7. What is Sysco's commitment to equal opportunity employment?
   Sysco is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a fair and inclusive work environment for all employees.
8. What is the importance of demand planning in the foodservice industry?
   Demand planning is crucial in the foodservice industry to ensure that products are available when and where customers need them, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.
9. How does Sysco use technology in its demand planning process?
   Sysco leverages various technologies, including ERP systems, forecasting software, and data analytics tools, to improve the accuracy and efficiency of its demand planning process.
10. What are the biggest challenges in demand planning and how does Sysco address them?
    Some of the biggest challenges in demand planning include dealing with unpredictable market trends, managing product seasonality, and coordinating with multiple suppliers. Sysco addresses these challenges by using advanced forecasting techniques, collaborating closely with suppliers, and continuously improving its demand planning processes.