S&OP MasterClass

Hosted by Roima – Perito IBP

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May 2026

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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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24 recent

May 13, 202645 min

Monthly S&OP | Balancing and Executive Review: How to Stop Strategic Decisions Being Made on the Warehouse Floor | Ep. 24

Most supply chain organisations can produce a demand plan. Many can build a supply plan. Where the wheels tend to come off is in the two weeks that follow, the balancing week, where you reconcile what the business wants with what it can actually produce, and the executive S&OP, where senior leaders are asked to commit to the trade-offs. Skip these two steps, and strategic decisions quietly slip to whoever shouts the loudest in the warehouse or the sales region. Keep them, and your planning starts connecting to your strategy.In this second installment of the S&OP MasterClass from Roima, Søren Hammer Pedersen sits down again with Benjamin Obling, COO of PERITO IBP, to walk through weeks three and four of the classical S&OP process. The conversation moves from practical visualisation tricks (a simple green, amber, red capacity grid will take you surprisingly far) to the more political work of getting C-level executives to give guidance instead of reactive orders.If you plan supply chains for a living, or you carry the CFO, CCO or CEO title and find yourself making scattered, one-off calls on inventory, service levels and market priorities, this episode will give you a clear mental model for how those decisions should be surfaced, framed and committed to inside a monthly rhythm.Chapters00:00 Cold open, the cost of skipping the balancing step01:23 Welcome to the S&OP MasterClass and recap of part one03:28 The four weeks of the S&OP process at a glance05:56 Why weeks three and four actually matter11:07 Visualising capacity, bottlenecks and stock projections18:01 Extending the footprint to include your suppliers20:23 Running the balancing meeting and handing over to sales22:23 Deciding what to mitigate now and what to escalate27:10 The purpose of the executive S&OP meeting29:01 How to motivate the C-level to show up35:16 Turning decisions into operational plans the same week37:58 The fifth step, adhering to the plan you just agreed42:07 Getting started without inventing the wheelProduction This podcast is brought to you by Roima.This podcast is produced by Montanus.

April 15, 2026Episode 2340 min

Monthly S&OP | Get chaos or get the first weeks right | Ep. 23

Most companies know they need an S&OP process. Few have one that actually works.The gap between having the meetings and having a functioning integrated business plan is where most organisations quietly struggle, and where the biggest operational and commercial risks accumulate. In this episode of the S&OP MasterClass, Søren Hammer Pedersen sits down with Benjamin Obling – a practitioner with 16 years of focused S&OP experience across industries and organisations – to work through the first two weeks of a monthly S&OP cycle. Not the theory.The actual steps: who does what, when, with which tools, and what goes wrong when any of it is missing. Benjamin brings the perspective of someone who has seen both extremes up close: companies with sophisticated IBP tools and no process, and companies with well-structured processes and nothing to put in them. His argument is that neither works alone. The foundation of a reliable S&OP process is built in weeks one and two, in demand planning and supply planning, the engine room of the S&OP process.Get those two weeks right, and the rest of the cycle becomes a decision-making conversation grounded in data. Get them wrong, and you spend weeks three and four firefighting.This episode is the first in a two-part series. Today covers demand planning and supply planning. Part two will go into the balancing and executive S&OP stages.In This EpisodeWhy having an S&OP process without the right data tools, or the right tools without a process, produces equally poor resultsThe four main steps of a monthly S&OP cycle, and why skipping the first two guarantees chaos in the last twoThe difference between minor and major forecast overrides and why most minor adjustments are a waste of timeWhy inventory planning is a strategic decision disguised as a technical one and the risks of leaving it to a few specialistsHow to run a supply-side MRP simulation before uploading your demand plan to the ERP systemThe two non-negotiables for a high-functioning S&OP process: strong data tools, and clear process ownershipEpisode contents00:07 Recap: the four phases of S&OP08:49 Why balancing week matters — and why most companies skip it15:20 The "loudest voice wins" problem in demand prioritisation30:03 Simulating MRP before it hits the ERP system31:47 Extending visibility up and downstream: suppliers in the picture34:26 Rule of delegation: what to resolve in week 3 vs. escalate to week 436:18 Outputs of the balancing week25:37 How to get C-level to actually show up and engage27:25 Structuring the executive meeting: State of the Union + decisions09:17 Avoiding the post-planning firefighting trap37:22 The fifth step: following up on actual planning behaviour38:56 Summary & closing thoughts39:13 Outro & call to actionProduction This podcast is brought to you by Roima.This podcast is produced by Montanus.

February 11, 2026Episode 2233 min

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 content00:44 The rise of AI in supply chain planning03:39 Current challenges in AI integration for planning04:51 Trust and governance in AI predictions07:03 Finding starting points for AI automation in planning08:45 Leveraging AI across different planning disciplines09:13 Identifying critical areas for human oversight12:19 Balancing automation and human judgment16:56 Knowing when to trust AI predictions19:18 Ensuring transparency in AI-driven processes23:36 Impacts of AI on sales and operations planning29:10 Future outlook for AI in supply chain planning Production This podcast is brought to you by Roima.This podcast is produced by Montanus.

January 14, 2026Episode 2135 min

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 matters01:05 Meet Benjamin Obling, IBP and supply chain planning expert02:10 How MRP turns S&OP decisions into execution03:35 When MRP works and when complexity breaks it05:25 Red flags: unrealistic plans and manual firefighting07:05 The business cost of poor MRP output08:30 How MRP becomes a black box over time10:40 Diagnosing MRP volatility with locks and timestamps12:35 Fixing the inputs: forecast, safety stock, MOQs, lead times15:10 Prioritizing master data fixes by impact18:05 Direct-derived demand vs. MRP noise21:10 Better decisions with rough-cut capacity and scenariosProduction This podcast is brought to you by Roima.This podcast is produced by Montanus.

October 1, 2025Episode 2041 min

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 Content02:42 Importance of a good vendor selection process07:35 Defining business outcomes and requirements09:40 Stakeholder management in vendor selection14:02 Shortlisting vendors: Number and criteria15:31 Importance of live demos during vendor evaluation26:05 Value of proof of concepts in selection30:43 Finance’s role in strengthening the business case32:05 Four tracks to consider in the RFP process33:58 Importance of cultural fit and vendor relationships39:01 Reinforcing simplicity and avoiding overcomplicationProduction This podcast is brought to you by Roima.This podcast is produced by Montanus.

September 10, 2025Episode 1940 min

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 Content00:39 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 decisionsProduction This podcast is brought to you by Roima.This podcast is produced by Montanus.

August 6, 2025Episode 1836 min

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 Content00:58 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 efficiencyProductionThis 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.

July 2, 2025Episode 1737 min

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 Content01:06 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 impactProductionThis 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.

May 28, 2025Episode 1637 min

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 Content00:10 Introduction to supply chain planning excellence03:29 Common mistakes in change management05:33 The need for process challenges08:04 Demand planning: key considerations for improvement09:18 Data integrity and forecast quality11:19 Human behavior and forecasting14:05 Inventory planning and automation opportunities16:40 Stocking strategies and rethinking business logic20:35 Master data's role in supply chain efficiency25:42 Structured approach to process re-engineering28:12 Business value of planning excellence30:50 Ensuring follow-up and sustaining improvements35:50 Start your transformation journeyProductionThis 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.

April 30, 2025Episode 1536 min

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.

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