Sales Planning Manager at Daikin Comfort Technologies Distribution, Inc.

Daikin Comfort Technologies Distribution, Inc. is seeking a professional, skilled individual for our Sales Planning Manager position located in San Mateo, CA. The Sales Planning Manager plays a critical role in optimizing sales strategy, forecasting accuracy, and inventory management to drive business growth and profitability. This role is responsible for leading the collection, analysis, and interpretation of sales and market data, ensuring data-driven decision-making that enhances overall sales productivity. The Sales Planning Manager will develop and implement advanced forecasting models, key performance indicators (KPIs), and business intelligence tools to improve strategic planning and execution.

Additionally, this position requires cross-functional collaboration with sales, finance, supply chain, and executive leadership to provide actionable insights and recommendations that align with company objectives. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of financial planning, data analytics, and business intelligence methodologies, with the ability to influence decision-making at higher levels within the organization.

Why work with us?

  > Benefits are effective on day one for all full-time direct hires.

  > Training programs are available to help guide team members and develop new skills.

  > Growth Opportunities - there are immense opportunities to grow your career.

  > You will be part of a Global Company - our family brands are backed by Daikin Industries, Ltd. 

Position Responsibilities may include;

• Lead the development of sophisticated sales forecasting models by analyzing historical trends, economic conditions, and market dynamics across regions and channels.

• Design and optimize inventory planning strategies to ensure product availability while minimizing excess inventory costs.

• Drive strategic sales planning efforts by identifying opportunities for revenue growth, process improvements, and operational efficiencies.

• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to enhance business understanding and drive data-backed decision-making.

• Partner with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to present insights and influence long-term sales and inventory planning strategies.

• Provide advanced data analysis, including regression modeling, probability assessments, and predictive analytics, to support business initiatives.

• Oversee the phase-in and phase-out process for new product introductions, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruptions.

• Implement automation and process improvements in data collection, reporting, and analytics to enhance efficiency.

• Act as a subject matter expert in sales planning methodologies, mentoring junior analysts and supporting team development.

• Evaluate external market conditions and competitor trends to inform sales strategies and identify new business opportunities.

• Lead the preparation of comprehensive sales and margin reports for senior management, ensuring data accuracy and actionable insights.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in sales planning tools, methodologies, and business processes.

• Support executive leadership in annual sales planning and budgeting processes, contributing strategic recommendations based on data insights.

• Perform additional projects/duties to support ongoing business needs.

Nature & Scope:

• Is recognized as a subject matter expert in job area

• Manages large projects or processes with limited oversight from manager

• Coaches, reviews, and delegates work to lower-level professionals

• Problems faced are difficult and often complex

Knowledge & Skills:

• Strong proficiency in Excel (advanced functions, macros, and automation), SQL, and business intelligence tools (Power BI, Tableau, or equivalent).

• Deep knowledge of data management, relational databases, and statistical analysis tools (R, Python, or equivalent a plus).

• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex data sets and translate insights into actionable business strategies.

• Proven track record of collaborating with cross-functional teams and influencing decision-making at senior levels.

• Exceptional problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, with strong attention to detail.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate insights to executive leadership.

• Strong business acumen with an understanding of finance, cost accounting, and market dynamics.

Experience:

• 8+ years of experience in quantitative business analysis, sales forecasting, production planning, or financial planning & analysis.

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Analytics, Finance, Statistics, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred

• APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP) or CPA preferred.

• Experience implementing automation in sales planning and data reporting processes.

• Background in working with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle) and CRM platforms.

People Management: No

Physical Requirements / Work Environment: Must be able to perform essential responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodations. Must be able to travel on business or work beyond normal work hours as necessary

Reports To: Manager, Sales Planning

The Company provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of a person’s race, color, religion (including religious dress or grooming practices), creed, national origin (including language use restrictions), citizenship, uniform service member or veteran status, ancestry, disability, physical or mental disability (including HIV/AIDS), medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, request for protected leave, marital status, sex, pregnancy, age (over 40), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. The Company will comply with all federal and state regulations and statutes pertaining to individuals with disabilities. 

Qualified Applicants must be legally authorized for employment in the United States. Qualified applicants will not require employer sponsored work authorization now or in the future for employment in the United States. 

The Company provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of a person’s race, color, religion (including religious dress or grooming practices), creed, national origin (including language use restrictions), citizenship, uniform service member or veteran status, ancestry, disability, physical or mental disability (including HIV/AIDS), medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, request for protected leave, marital status, sex, pregnancy, age (over 40), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. The Company will comply with all federal and state regulations and statutes pertaining to individuals with disabilities.