Master Graduation Assignment: Spare Parts Demand Forecasting

Master Graduation Assignment: Spare Parts Demand Forecasting

Enhance the spare parts demand forecasting accuracy within PACCAR Parts Europe

Functiebeschrijving

As an intern within the Demand Planning team, your primary focus will be to enhance the accuracy of our spare parts demand forecasts. Currently, forecasts are generated using planning software that applies algorithms based on historical sales data. While demand planners review exceptional cases, the selection and application of forecasting algorithms are limited and somewhat arbitrary. Forecast accuracy improvements will contribute to an improved parts availability and enhanced customer satisfaction.
Your key responsibilities will include:

• Analyzing current forecasting methodologies and identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Investigating the potential application of alternative algorithms and machine learning techniques to enhance forecast accuracy.
• Determining criteria for selecting the most appropriate forecasting method in various scenarios.
• Exploring additional data sources that could refine forecasting accuracy.
• Assessing the impact of manual interventions on forecast outcomes.

Jouw profiel

We are looking for a motivated master’s student providing the following qualifications:

• Enrolled in a master’s program in Econometrics, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management & Logistics, Data Science, Supply Chain & Logistics or a related discipline.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and/or SQL.
• Knowledgeable in forecasting methodologies, including various forecasting algorithms and machine learning applications.
• Ability to engage at different levels in the organization and communication skills in English.
• Independent, responsible, and proactive work ethic.

Afdeling

PACCAR Parts Europe (PPE), a division of the global PACCAR Parts organization, is dedicated to expanding sales of spare parts across all DAF markets worldwide, exclusively through the DAF and TRP dealer network. PPE delivers a comprehensive range of DAF, PACCAR Genuine, and TRP parts, supported by six state-of-the-art PACCAR Parts Distribution Centers (PDCs) located in the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Hungary, and Panama. We are dedicated to provide unique and innovative solutions to satisfy our customers’ needs.
The Demand Planning team, consisting of seven supply chain professionals, is part of the Materials department based in Eindhoven. This department oversees parts availability, delivery reliability, and inventory levels at PDCs and dealer locations throughout Europe.

Wij bieden

• A view behind the scenes at a large international corporation; You will get a lot of freedom and responsibility;
• We are open to your initiatives and depending on the assignment you see your results back in the workplace;
• An experienced coach and supervisor who can teach you a lot and is willing to help you with your assignment;
• After your graduation, you will have the opportunity to start your career at DAF;
• An internship wage of € 375,- Bachelor and € 450,- Master per month on full-time base;
• A travel allowance, if you don’t have a student travel product (provided by the Dutch government);
• A housing allowance, if you temporarily rent a room near DAF.