Demand Planning Analyst

About Polaris Inc.

Polaris Inc., established in 1954 and headquartered in Minnesota, is a leading global powersports company. The firm develops innovative off-road vehicles such as the Polaris RANGER®, RZR®, and GENERAL™, along with military, commercial vehicles, snowmobiles, moto-roadsters, electric vehicles, and boats. Polaris nurtures creativity and agility in its workforce to foster change and innovation, aiming to deliver exceptional products and experiences worldwide.

Role Overview

The Demand Planning Analyst is a pivotal contributor within Polaris responsible for creating and aligning forecast plans specifically for the Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) segment. This individual crafts precise retail and shipment forecasts by integrating statistical tools, market research, and collaboration across teams. Their analyses support critical production scheduling and inventory management decisions, impacting both short-term operations and long-term strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Facilitate monthly Demand Review meetings to secure cross-departmental consensus on an 18-month ORV demand forecast.
• Generate retail and industry forecasts through trend analysis, application of Blue Yonder models, competitive landscape evaluation, promotional analysis, and leadership input.
• Compile and assess forecasts at product line, segment, and marketing levels.
• Incorporate dealer data, order projections, and inventory goals to establish the shipping schedule.
• Convey global shipment demand plans to production teams to optimize manufacturing flow.
• Deliver presentations on forecasts and associated risk factors to ORV leadership.
• Lead Portfolio Reviews to harmonize strategies on products, pricing, and volumes.
• Continuously enhance ORV demand planning processes for improved transparency and data integrity.
• Employ judgment and persuasive skills to influence management decisions effectively.
• Work collaboratively to refine forecast accuracy and demand optimization.
• Provide detailed analyses on sales, orders, inventory, and stock levels to relevant stakeholders.

Competencies

• Strong data literacy to interpret metrics and reports to support decision making and identify trends.
• Analytical thinking to objectively evaluate information and resolve challenges.
• Adaptability to swiftly respond to changing situations and develop contingency plans.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 3 years of experience in business analytics.
• Preferred background in demand planning or forecasting.
• Proven ability to formulate data-backed plans that guide executive decisions.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Strong analytical skills with advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency.
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively across functions.
• Skilled in handling multiple priorities and meeting deadlines.
• Experience with Power BI and Alteryx is a plus.
• Availability to travel around 10% as necessary.
• Position does not offer sponsorship.

Compensation and Benefits

Starting salary range for Minnesota residents is $69,000 to $90,000 annually, determined by factors such as education, experience, and skills. Polaris provides a competitive benefits package including a profit-sharing plan, employee stock ownership options, 401(k) match, financial wellness resources, various insurance offerings, paid time off, wellness and fitness reimbursements, and volunteer support programs.

Additional Information

Former Polaris employees considered for rehire and current employees in good standing meet eligibility criteria. Polaris is committed to equal employment opportunity and provides accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request.