Demand Planning Specialist – Food Service (Dubai)

About the role

Arla is seeking a Demand Planning Specialist to join its Food Service team in Dubai. You will be responsible for developing and maintaining accurate demand forecasts that support the S&OP process, working closely with sales, marketing, and other planning functions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop demand forecasts across the S&OP horizon in collaboration with Sales, Marketing, Planning, and key customers.
• Create statistical forecasts by analysing historical sales data and future order trends.
• Leverage planning tools and technology to improve forecast accuracy.
• Lead short‑ and long‑term forecast creation through cross‑functional alignment.
• Analyse data to generate insights, evaluate promotions, special events, cannibalisation and seasonal trends.
• Deliver validated forecasts to Supply Chain, Finance, Commercial, Marketing and Global Planning teams.
• Drive continuous improvement of demand planning processes and monitor KPI performance.
• Set and optimise forecasting models and parameters.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or a related field.
• 2–3 years of experience in demand planning, forecasting or supply chain planning.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel
• Power BI
• SAP forecasting modules

What we offer

• Professional development and internal promotion opportunities.
• A collaborative, positive culture within a global market‑leading dairy company.
• Commitment to sustainable practices benefiting customers, farmers and the planet.