Lead, Demand Planning and Order Management at Airtel

The Lead, Demand Planning and Order Management role is responsible for forecasting demand across network equipment, devices, SIM cards, and service-related inventory. This role ensures alignment between commercial forecasts and operational capabilities, enabling efficient supply chain execution and optimal inventory levels to support customer acquisition, retention, and network expansion.

This role is also responsible for ensuring on time issuance of purchase orders as well as OTIF delivery for various SKUs and projects to achieve overall efficiency and success.

This role collaborates cross-functionally with Sales, Finance, and Logistics teams to ensure accurate forecasting and optimal inventory levels, driving improved customer service and operational efficiency.

Airtel Africa is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and remain fully committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Demand Planning & Fulfillment 

• Develop and manage demand forecasts for mobile devices, routers, SIM cards, and network infrastructure components.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Network Planning teams to align forecasts with commercial campaigns, product launches, and infrastructure rollouts.
• Lead the monthly Demand Review and contribute to the S&OP process to ensure cross-functional alignment.
• Monitor and improve forecast accuracy using historical data, market trends, and predictive analytics.
• Support inventory planning to ensure availability of all commercial SKUs and critical telecom assets while minimizing excess and obsolescence.
• Analyze subscriber growth trends, sales vs activation patterns to inform demand planning for sim and devices
• Partner with HBB and enterprise teams as well as warehouse and logistics teams to ensure timely replenishment and distribution.
• Provide regular reporting and insights to senior leadership on forecast performance, risks, and opportunities.
• Drive continuous improvement in forecasting tools, processes, and data integration

Purchase order management

• Track all POs to ensure on time delivery
• ProjectWise reporting of open POs
• Ensure adherence to internal procurement policies and regulatory requirements.
• Provide PO-related data and insights for audits and management reporting.
• Identify process improvement opportunities and implement
• Drive on time payment for all fully delivered goods and services

Cross functional engagement and support

• Engage various business functions to understand their requirements which will further help to drive efficiency
• Develop a win- win working relationship between Airtel and its vendors
• Collaborate and communicate effectively, ensuring an inclusive approach to teamwork

Educational Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Accounting, Business, Economics, or related field (master’s preferred).

Relevant Experience & Functional / Technical Skills 

• 5+ years of experience in demand planning, forecasting, or supply chain management. 
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in forecasting tools (e.g.,Oracle  Excel, Power BI).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with S&OP processes and cross-functional collaboration.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing priorities.

Other requirements 

• Analytical and Presentation skills
• Strategic negotiation skills.
• Good knowledge in finance