Own and coordinate the quarterly S&OP forecasting cycle, ensuring alignment across business groups and stakeholders
Develop and maintain commercial scenarios (volume, price, mix) to support leadership decision-making
Ensure delivery against strict timelines, with clear governance and tracking of inputs and outputs
Challenge assumptions to improve forecast accuracy and credibility
Systems & Forecasting Capability Ownership
Act as the business owner and go-to expert for GCUT and forecasting tools
Drive continuous improvement in forecasting systems, including automation, simplification, and data integrity
Lead the adoption of advanced analytics and machine learning solutions to enhance forecasting capability
Partner with global and technical teams to deliver system enhancements and resolve issues
Commercial Finance Business Partnering
Translate forecasts into clear commercial insights, highlighting risks and opportunities
Provide strong analytical support on performance drivers, including price, volume, and mix
Engage with finance and commercial teams to interpret results and guide decision-making
Proactively identify inconsistencies and ensure alignment between financials and operational realities
Stakeholder Management & Governance
Coordinate across Finance, Supply Chain, Commercial, and Global teams to drive alignment
Ensure strong communication and clarity throughout the S&OP process
Act as a trusted partner to senior stakeholders, providing clear, fact-based recommendations
Profile & Capabilities
Strong commercial acumen with the ability to interpret and challenge financial and operational data
Proven experience in S&OP, forecasting, or financial planning processes
Deep understanding of forecasting tools/systems (e.g. GCUT or similar)
High capability in analytics and data interpretation; exposure to automation or advanced analytics is advantageous
Excellent stakeholder management and coordination skills, with the ability to work across multiple teams
Strong delivery mindset with the ability to operate under tight timelines and high-pressure cycles
Requirements
Financial Analysis
Proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Excel
Excellent communication and influencing skills.
Stakeholder Management
Qualifications & Experience
Minimum 3-5 years experience in Finance, with strong exposure to business performance and planning
At least 3 years in FP&A, S&OP, or forecasting roles, with demonstrated ownership of planning cycles
BCom Accounting (or equivalent) is required
CA(SA), CIMA, or similar professional qualification is advantageous
Data Analytics certification (or equivalent practical experience) preferred
Experience in FMCG or a similar fast-paced, high-volume industry is required
Strong exposure to forecasting systems (e.g. GCUT, SAP, Hyperion Essbase, or similar planning tools)
Experience working with or driving automation, digital transformation, or machine learning initiatives is highly beneficial
Leadership
Benefits
Flexible schedule
Additional Information
Unilever is currently hiring for an S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning) Financial Analyst
Function : Finance
Reports to : FET Lead - Senior Finance Manager
Scope : Southern Africa
Location : La Lucia Ridge, Durban
Terms & Conditions: Full time
ABOUT UNILEVER
With 3.4 billion people in over 190 countries using our products every day, Unilever is a business that makes a real impact on the world. Work on brands that are loved and improve the lives of our consumers and the communities around us. We are driven by our purpose: to make sustainable living commonplace, and it is our belief that doing business the right way drives superior performance. At the heart of what we do is our people - we believe that when our people work with purpose, we will create a better business and a better world. At Unilever, your career will be a unique journey, grounded in our inclusive, collaborative, and flexible working environment. We don't believe in the 'one size fits all' approach and instead we will equip you with the tools you need to shape your own future.
J OB PURPOSE
To lead the S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning) forecasting process and commercial scenario planning for Southern Africa, while owning key forecasting systems, tools, and automation initiatives (e.g. Oracle Forecasting and Reporting, Advanced Analytics, Machine Learning). The role acts as the central integrator between finance, commercial, and systems teams, ensuring robust, timely, and insight-led decision making.
Unilever · LA Lucia, South Africa