Distribution Planner
Location: SKF Plant Zapopan
Department: Supply Chain / Logistics
Reports to: Planning & Logistics Leader / Supply Chain Manager
Role Purpose
The Distribution Planner is responsible for planning, coordinating, and ensuring the efficient flow of finished goods from the plant to SKF distribution centers, customers, and regional warehouses. This role ensures optimal inventory levels, on‑time deliveries, accurate order fulfillment, and alignment with customer demand while maintaining cost‑efficient logistics operations.
The position plays a key role between Production Planning, Customer Service, Warehousing, Transport Providers, and the Regional Distribution Network.
Key Responsibilities
Planning & Coordination
* Create and maintain the distribution plan for outbound finished goods from the Zapopan facility.
* Ensure accurate allocation of inventory to regional DCs based on demand, safety stock, and replenishment strategies.
* Monitor daily order fulfillment, shipping schedules, and dispatch priorities.
* Coordinate with the warehouse to ensure picking, packing, and loading activities follow plan.
Logistics & Inventory Management
* Analyze stock levels and trigger replenishments to avoid stockouts or overstock situations.
* Collaborate with global and regional logistics teams to align transportation capacity and schedules.
* Track shipments and ensure on‑time delivery (OTD) performance for internal and external customers.
* Manage discrepancies in stock, deliveries, and documentation.
Cross‑Functional Collaboration
* Work closely with Customer Service to support urgent orders, backorders, and delivery commitments.
* Collaborate with Production Planning to understand availability, constraints, and outputs.
* Participate in S&OP meetings to provide distribution and inventory visibility.
Data, Systems & Reporting
* Maintain planning information in SAP/ERP and ensure high data accuracy.
* Generate regular KPIs such as:
* On‑Time Delivery (OTD)
* Distribution adherence
* Inventory availability
* Backorder levels
* Identify opportunities to improve distribution processes and reduce logistics costs.
Requirements
Education
* Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, Logistics, International Business, or similar.
Experience
* 1–3+ years of experience in:
* Distribution planning
* Logistics coordination
* Inventory planning
* Supply chain operations
* Experience in manufacturing companies preferred (automotive, industrial, engineering).
Technical Skills
* Knowledge of ERP systems (preferably SAP).
* Intermediate to advanced Excel (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, basic analysis).
* Understanding of distribution networks, transportation, and inventory planning.
Soft Skills
* Strong communication and teamwork.
* Problem‑solving and analytical mindset.
* Ability to prioritize in a fast‑paced environment.
* High attention to detail and ownership mindset.
Nice to Have (Preferred)
* Knowledge of Lean / Continuous Improvement tools.
* Experience with forecasting or S&OP processes.
* English intermediate or higher.
What SKF Offers
* Opportunity to work in a global, high‑performance supply chain environment.
* Professional development and internal mobility.
* Competitive compensation and benefits.
About SKF
SKF has been around for more than a century and today we are one of the world’s largest global suppliers of bearings and supporting solutions for rotating equipment. With more than 40,000 employees in around 130 countries, we are truly global. Our products are found everywhere in society. In fact, wherever there is movement, SKF’s solutions might be at work. This means that we are an important part of the everyday lives of people and companies around the world. See more, at www.skf.com.