S&OP MasterClass

Roima – Perito IBP

Managing supply and demand comes with ever-increasing complexity. With thousands of part numbers, hundreds of suppliers and a market that constantly changes, supply chain and operations management is a real challenge. In this S&OP MasterClass™ podcast series, we take a head dive into the complexity, and give you concrete advise on, how to better manage your sales and operations planning. We’ll talk about automation, forecasting, inventory planning and integrated business planning – and everything S&OP-geeky in between. Your host is Søren Hammer Pedersen, CCO of Roima – Perito IBP, who will be interviewing supply chain experts, automation professionals and exciting people who have their S&OP figured out. For more information on this S&OP MasterClass™, go to our website. This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

  1. FEB 11

    How to balance AI in supply chain planning with human judgement

    AI is moving fast and it’s changing the way supply chains are run. But a big question remains: how do you tap into its power without losing control or replacing the judgment you and your team bring to the table? In this episode of the S&OP MasterClass, Søren Hammer Pedersen sits down with Benjamin Obling, a supply chain expert with 16 years at Roima. You’ll hear real examples of how companies are using AI in demand forecasting and inventory planning without cutting people out of the process. If you’ve been wondering how to get AI working for you, without creating blind spots or overreliance, you’ll want to listen in. We talk about practical ways to build trust, add smart governance, and use AI where it makes sense while keeping human judgment front and center. In this episode, you'll learn about: How to balance AI automation with human judgment in planning.Key AI-driven improvements in demand forecasting and inventory management.Importance of trust and governance in adopting AI strategies.How to determine what to automate and where humans are needed.Embracing AI while maintaining control through guardrails and alerts.Episode content 00:44 The rise of AI in supply chain planning 03:39 Current challenges in AI integration for planning 04:51 Trust and governance in AI predictions 07:03 Finding starting points for AI automation in planning 08:45 Leveraging AI across different planning disciplines 09:13 Identifying critical areas for human oversight 12:19 Balancing automation and human judgment 16:56 Knowing when to trust AI predictions 19:18 Ensuring transparency in AI-driven processes 23:36 Impacts of AI on sales and operations planning 29:10 Future outlook for AI in supply chain planning  Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

    33 min
  2. JAN 14

    Why your MRP is insufficient in the real word of S&OP and what do do about it

    Do you actually trust the MRP output you get every day, or are you stuck with unrealistic plans and constant firefighting? In this episode of the S&OP MasterClass, host Søren Hammer Pedersen is joined by Roima colleague Benjamin Obling, who brings 16 years of experience in inventory, demand, supply planning, and IBP, for a deep dive into one of the most critical engines in supply chain execution: MRP. They explain why MRP often becomes unstable in real-world complexity such as BOM levels, lead time variation, MOQs, capacity rules, and multiple factories or ERP systems. They also walk through the warning signs and the business impact when MRP is not under control, including lost sales, excess inventory, air freight, and frequent changeovers. Most importantly, they share practical ways to diagnose and stabilize MRP. Topics include timestamping MRP outputs to improve transparency, fixing key inputs where data quality drives outcomes, and using a direct-derived demand view to separate stable consumption from MRP-driven volatility. If supplier forecasts keep changing and planners spend too much time correcting proposals manually, this episode is highly relevant. In this episode, you will learn about: Why MRP is a critical link between S&OP decisions and execution in daily operationsCommon signs that MRP is producing unrealistic and costly plansWhy rule-based MRP struggles in complex and constraint-heavy environmentsHow to analyze MRP volatility using locks, timestamps, and BOM-level tracingA practical approach to stabilizing supplier and capacity views using direct-derived demandHow to prioritize master data fixes without launching an endless cleanup effortWhere scenario planning and rough-cut capacity planning can support better decisions before changes reach ERP and MRPEpisode content 00:00 Welcome and why MRP matters 01:05 Meet Benjamin Obling, IBP and supply chain planning expert 02:10 How MRP turns S&OP decisions into execution 03:35 When MRP works and when complexity breaks it 05:25 Red flags: unrealistic plans and manual firefighting 07:05 The business cost of poor MRP output 08:30 How MRP becomes a black box over time 10:40 Diagnosing MRP volatility with locks and timestamps 12:35 Fixing the inputs: forecast, safety stock, MOQs, lead times 15:10 Prioritizing master data fixes by impact 18:05 Direct-derived demand vs. MRP noise 21:10 Better decisions with rough-cut capacity and scenarios Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

    35 min
  3. 10/01/2025

    Skip the honeymoon and make vendor selection work

    Mastering vendor selection = cut risk and pick the right partner. Are you still choosing vendors based on pitch decks and checklists? You're absolutely not alone. It's aslo costing more than you think. In this episode of the S&OP Masterclass, Søren Hammer Pedersen talks with Benjamin Obling from Roima. Benjamin brings 15+ years of integrated business planning experience, offering insights into what works, what fails and what often slips under the radar. We cover what to look out for beyond the first demo, why finance should always be at the table early in the RFP process and how to spot misalignment before it slows everything down. This one's short, sharp and full of smart ways to fine-tune your vendor selection process. If you’re planning for a new IBP tool, or want to make sure your current setup supports the big picture, this is for you.  In this episode, you'll learn about: 1. Importance of aligning management before vendor selection. 2. How to demo and validate vendors effectively. 3. Key factors for a successful RFP process. 4. Four critical tracks to focus during RFP. 5. Role of concrete proof-of-concept in evaluations. 6. Avoiding common pitfalls in vendor selection. Episode Content 02:42 Importance of a good vendor selection process 07:35 Defining business outcomes and requirements 09:40 Stakeholder management in vendor selection 14:02 Shortlisting vendors: Number and criteria 15:31 Importance of live demos during vendor evaluation 26:05 Value of proof of concepts in selection 30:43 Finance’s role in strengthening the business case 32:05 Four tracks to consider in the RFP process 33:58 Importance of cultural fit and vendor relationships 39:01 Reinforcing simplicity and avoiding overcomplication Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

    42 min
  4. 09/10/2025

    Future-proofing supply chains: From Excel to AI-driven planning

    How ready is your supply chain for the next disruption? In this episode of the S&OP MasterClass, Søren Hammer Pedersen talks with integrated business planning expert Benjamin Obling about what it really takes to keep your planning sharp and resilient - especially as budget season approaches. They’ll get into why many companies still rely on tools like Excel (and the hidden cost of doing so), what agility and scalability really mean today, and where AI actually fits in. Even more importantly, they’ll focus on how to make a solid, practical case for investing in better planning infrastructure, so you’re not left patching things up when the pressure is on. If you're weighing where to allocate budget or just want a clearer view of what comes next in planning, this one's for you. It’s short, sharp and full of insights you can use. Hit play when you’re ready. In this episode, you'll learn about: How to future-proof supply chain planning for budget season.Key areas for enhancing supply chain efficiency and agility.The vital role of scenario planning in modern supply chains.Exploring the intersection of AI and supply chain planning.Leveraging cloud technology for scalable supply chain solutions. Episode Content 00:39 Overview of budget season in supply chain planning   01:11 Importance of future-proofing your supply chain planning   04:28 Competitors are becoming more professional in planning   12:57 Emphasizing scalability in supply chain operations   18:01 The growing need for scenario planning in uncertain times   30:10 Structure and data governance in AI applications   32:42 Costs of inaction: stockouts and working capital issues   36:33 Building a data-driven business case for investment decisions Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

    41 min
  5. 08/06/2025

    The revenue insights hiding in your S&OP process – and how to find them

    Is your S&OP process really connected to your company’s goals or is it stuck in its own lane? In this episode, Søren Hammer sits down with Benjamin Obling from Roima to talk about how supply chains can do more than just react. They can lead. They talk about what happens when operations, strategy, and finance actually work together – and what’s holding that back today. You’ll get practical insights on connecting strategic planning with real-world capacity and demand as well as examples of how smarter forecasting and aligned priorities can drive both profit and performance. If you're a supply chain leader who wants a stronger voice in the boardroom, this one’s for you. In this episode, you'll learn about: Why supply chain needs a strategic and financial seat.Hidden costs impacting revenue and company value creation.Breaking silos for strategic supply chain alignment.Using demand forecasting for strategic business simulations.How to integrate finance for a unified business plan. Episode Content 00:58 Meet Benjamin Obling and his background   01:45 Linking S&OP to finance and strategy   04:22 Recent trends pushing for financial alignment in S&OP   07:00 Evolving S&OP processes and addressing operational silos   09:27 The need for a unified demand forecast   11:57 Engaging C-suite for strategic S&OP discussions   16:35 Balancing inventories with strategic decision-making   19:12 Steps to integrate revenue insights into planning   30:15 Emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision making   33:39 Aligning systems and processes for better efficiency Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus. Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

    37 min
  6. 07/02/2025

    Why demand variability is killing your supply chain planning

    What’s causing the most stress in your planning process? Missed forecasts? Late deliveries?  The real issue might be something sneakier: variability. In this episode of the S&OP Masterclass, Søren Hammer sits down with Benjamin Obling to talk about how variability quietly chips away at efficiency and profits.  With 16+ years of hands-on experience, Benjamin shares real examples and smart ways to manage uncertainty across demand and supply. If you’re working with supply or demand planning, and tired of being surprised by what *should’ve* been predictable, this one’s worth your time. You’ll walk away with advice you can actually use, and maybe a few ideas you haven’t thought of yet. Listen in and give your planning process an advantage. In this episode, you'll learn about: 1. Why variability is a "silent killer" in supply chain planning. 2. How to address demand planning uncertainties effectively. 3. The role of AI models in improving forecast accuracy. 4. Minimizing supply chain uncertainty through data measurement. 5. Optimizing inventory amidst unknowns for cost efficiency. 6. Balancing human factors with S&OP processes efficiently. Episode Content 01:06 Importance of understanding uncertainty in forecasting   04:46 Tackling uncertainty in demand planning   05:56 Using AI to improve forecast accuracy   08:03 Impact of promotional campaigns on demand variability   10:14 Managing new product launches and uncertainties   14:19 Addressing supply-side uncertainties and inventory management   16:51 The role of MRP and its sensitivity   21:45 Human factors affecting planning and adjustments   25:52 Tools for measuring variability in supply chain   30:39 Prioritizing areas to tackle based on financial impact Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus. Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

    38 min
  7. 05/28/2025

    Unlock planning excellence – Strategies for supply chain leaders

    Why do so many companies settle for “good enough” in supply chain planning – when better is absolutely possible? In this episode of the S&OP Masterclass from Roima, we sit down with Søren Hammer Pedersen and Benjamin Obling to talk about how you can move from legacy processes to smarter, more automated planning that actually delivers results. We’ll share real stories and practical steps to help you rethink how you approach demand and supply planning, get more out of your tools, and challenge old habits that no longer serve you.   If you're tired of inefficiencies and ready to unlock real business value, this one’s for you. Listen in and pick up ideas you can immediately start using to improve accuracy, cut costs, and stay ahead. In this episode, you'll learn about: 1. Understanding the concept of planning excellence in supply chains. 2. Balancing process optimization with tool integration. 3. Importance of challenging existing supply chain processes. 4. Identifying and automating key strategic supply chain processes. 5. Leveraging business logic for dynamic stocking strategies. 6. Effective strategies for enhancing forecast accuracy. Episode Content 00:10 Introduction to supply chain planning excellence 03:29 Common mistakes in change management 05:33 The need for process challenges 08:04 Demand planning: key considerations for improvement 09:18 Data integrity and forecast quality 11:19 Human behavior and forecasting 14:05 Inventory planning and automation opportunities 16:40 Stocking strategies and rethinking business logic 20:35 Master data's role in supply chain efficiency 25:42 Structured approach to process re-engineering 28:12 Business value of planning excellence 30:50 Ensuring follow-up and sustaining improvements 35:50 Start your transformation journey Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus. Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

    38 min
  8. 04/30/2025

    Demand AI – Transforming Supply Chain Forecasting for Competitive Edge

    Is your demand plan giving you the accuracy you need – or are you reacting more than you’d like? In this episode of the S&OP MasterClass, Søren Hammer Pedersen, sits down with Benjamin Obling from Roima to talk about something that’s changing the game in demand forecasting: AI.  Benjamin brings 15 years of practical experience and shares how Roima is using AI – specifically neural networks – to fine-tune forecasts down to the SKU level and across channels. They cover what’s working, what’s not, and what it actually takes to move from manual to machine-assisted planning. If you're looking for smarter ways to manage demand and gain an edge in your supply chain, this one’s worth your time. Give it a listen. In this episode, you'll learn about: 1. What is demand AI and its significance in forecasting? 2. How does demand AI enhance forecast accuracy? 3. The best techniques for implementing demand AI effectively. 4. Practical benefits realized from adopting demand AI methods. 5. Common challenges and solutions in demand AI implementation. 6. How demand AI transforms demand planning dynamics. # Episode Content01:07 What is Demand AI? Overview by Benjamin Obling   02:14 Improving Forecast Accuracy with Demand AI   04:24 Demand AI: A Game Changer for Supply Chains?   05:42 Techniques Behind Demand AI Models   10:00 Continuous Improvement: Learning from Forecasts   15:41 Real-Life Benefits of Demand AI Implementations   20:55 Steps for Getting Started with Demand AI   26:09 The Demand Planner's Evolving Role with Demand AI   29:22 Future Predictions: Expanding Beyond Demand AI   35:02 Final Thoughts: Embrace Demand AI for Success # ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Roima.  This podcast is produced by Montanus. Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

    36 min

About

Managing supply and demand comes with ever-increasing complexity. With thousands of part numbers, hundreds of suppliers and a market that constantly changes, supply chain and operations management is a real challenge. In this S&OP MasterClass™ podcast series, we take a head dive into the complexity, and give you concrete advise on, how to better manage your sales and operations planning. We’ll talk about automation, forecasting, inventory planning and integrated business planning – and everything S&OP-geeky in between. Your host is Søren Hammer Pedersen, CCO of Roima – Perito IBP, who will be interviewing supply chain experts, automation professionals and exciting people who have their S&OP figured out. For more information on this S&OP MasterClass™, go to our website. This podcast is brought to you by Roima. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

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