.The Upstream Planning Manager is responsible for standardizing the planning process and supply limiters through planning-specific levers for selected scope of critical suppliers/categories in North America to improve vendor supply reliability and optimize inventory. Leading, developing, and coaching a team of planners working to achieve KPIs and best practices.Key Responsibilities:Ensure scoped key suppliers are prepared to meet Schneider Electric demand.Support fulfilling plant material shortage escalations.Lead the development and formulation of long and mid-range planning, policies, programs, and objectives related to Materials Planning Management.Drive best practices among direct reports and Upstream Team.Collaborate with Procurement to develop joint business plans for critical suppliers.Implement monthly process to track, monitor, and improve monthly forecast (accuracy and bias) with critical suppliers.Lead continuous improvement initiatives that balance service, working capital, and costs:Examples include but are not limited to: Vendor Managed Inventory, Upstream Flow Optimization Program or UFO, Consignment, Quick Ship Flow with Suppliers.Crisis Management/Escalations:Responsible for developing and implementing supplier escalation process for NAM to drive stability:In case of severe shortage impacting the entire region, work with the plant upstream planner and set up a task force to avoid any customer impact.Supplier Scorecards:Responsible for monitoring Supplier performance and proactively identifying and mitigating risks.Create performance metrics and standards for all aspects of materials management and implement improvement initiatives.QualificationsWhat qualifications will make you successful?Education: Bachelor's degree required, Master's degree a bonus.Language: Fluent in English. Spanish is of value.Experience: 7+ years of experience in Supply Chain Planning (Supplier Management, SIOP, S&OP, Integrated Business Planning, Demand Planning, Procurement, Operations, Inventory Management, Capacity Management) or Supply Chain Functions.Track record of solving problems and working on complex projects.Experience working in cross-functional teams/roles.Skills:Need a global view with the ability to define and deploy corporate strategy for their scope/process.Strong ability to influence and convince stakeholders. Resilient in the face of challenge.Demonstrated ability to drive change and deliver results - solid network management - Change management experience.Proven ability in mentoring and developing talent.Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for effective interface with all internal and external contacts.Strong ability to make decisions in a changing environment.Ability to work in a team environment between the functions of Operations, Customer Supply Chain, Marketing, and Finance, and interact regularly with senior management regarding goals and accomplishments