Planning & Logistics - Graduate in Training

**Summary** We are seeking an analytical, technically skilled **Data Scientist supporting Supply Chain Planning** with a strong data science background to drive automation and digitization initiatives within our Beverages Manufacturing Production Planning environment at CPS Conco. You will play a critical role in optimizing the end-to-end production planning and S&OP process, leveraging advanced analytics and automation to enable smarter, more efficient scheduling. Your contributions will directly enhance departmental productivity, reduce overtime, and build a culture of continuous improvement through data-driven decision making. **Key Responsibilities** **Production Plan Optimization & Scheduling** * Develop and maintain optimized master production schedules utilizing SAP ERP and IBP, integrating forecast data, demand signals, and capacity constraints. * Lead the automation of scheduling and planning tasks by deploying advanced analytics and data science methodologies. * Identify and digitize manual planning processes-streamlining workflows, eliminating inefficiencies, and ensuring scalability. **Process Digitization & Automation** * Design and implement digital tools, including Power BI dashboards, to provide real-time visibility of schedule adherence, production efficiency, material availability, and bottlenecks. * Collaborate with IT, Operations, and Planning teams to automate data flows between SAP, IBP, and analytical platforms, minimizing manual intervention. **S &OP (Sales & Operations Planning) Enhancement** * Support the monthly S&OP process with scenario modeling, sensitivity analysis, and 'what-if' simulations, using data science to drive optimal production and inventory outcomes. * Enable the planning team to make faster, smarter decisions through the creation of robust dashboards and KPIs. **Data Analysis & Continuous Improvement** * Analyze plant and planning data to uncover inefficiencies, cost drivers, and potential automation opportunities. * Provide actionable insights and drive projects that reduce overtime and improve planning accuracy and team productivity. * Develop business cases for major planning optimization initiatives, quantifying expected productivity benefits and ROI. **Minimum Requirements** * Bachelors degree in Data Science, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, or related field. * 0-1 year experience (internships, academic or project work accepted) * Advanced experience with Power BI and data visualization tools. * Proficient in Python and/or R for data analysis, automation, and optimization model development. * Solid grasp of statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and process optimization. * Hands-on experience designing and automating planning processes in a manufacturing context. * Excellent communication and project management skills * 0-1 year experience (internships, academic or project work accepted) **Technical Skills** * Basic to intermediate proficiency in **Python** * Familiarity with: * Data analysis (Pandas, SigmaXL etc) * Data visualization (Power BI) * Understanding of: * Statistical analysis * Optimization concepts * Exposure to SQL or manufacturing systems (advantageous) **Key Competencies** * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills * Ability to translate data into actionable insights * High attention to detail and structured thinking * Effective communication (technical and non-technical) * Curiosity, initiative, and willingness to learn **Location(s):** Eswatini **City/Cities:** Manzini **Travel Required:** 00% - 25% **Relocation Provided:** No **Job Posting End Date:** May 1, 2026 **Our Purpose and Growth Culture:** We are taking deliberate action to nurture an inclusive culture that is grounded in our company purpose, to refresh the world and make a difference. We act with a growth mindset, take an expansive approach to what's possible and believe in continuous learning to improve our business and ourselves. We focus on four key behaviors - curious, empowered, inclusive and agile - and value how we work as much as what we achieve. We believe that our culture is one of the reasons our company continues to thrive after 130+ years. Visit Our Purpose and Vision to learn more about these behaviors and how you can bring them to life in your next role at Coca-Cola.