Job Description: The Inventory and Allocation Manager is responsible for overseeing the strategic planning, management, and optimization of inventory across multiple distribution centers. This role plays a critical part in ensuring product availability while balancing cost efficiency, market trends, and customer demands. The manager will collaborate closely with various teams, such as sales, operations, and suppliers, to ensure seamless product flow and stock optimization.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and execute inventory purchases based on sales forecasts, customer buying habits, and historical demand data.
Develop and manage purchasing strategies that maintain optimal stock levels while minimizing holding costs across multiple distribution centers.
Work closely with suppliers to ensure timely product availability and build long-term supplier relationships to secure competitive pricing and reliable delivery.
Monitor stock levels daily across all distribution centers, ensuring the right amount of stock is available at each location.
Implement stock management strategies, including just-in-time (JIT) practices, reorder points, and safety stock levels, to prevent overstocking or stockouts.
Use inventory management systems to track and manage stock flow, transfers, and adjustments.
Expedite orders as necessary to meet fluctuating demand or urgent customer needs while minimizing lead times.
Coordinate the movement of inventory between distribution centers, optimizing transportation costs and delivery times.
Work with the logistics and operations teams to ensure timely receipt of products and efficient warehouse operations.
Stay up to date with market trends, product demand, and pricing volatility, adjusting purchasing strategies to minimize risk and take advantage of market opportunities.
Analyze customer buying habits, seasonal trends, and market forecasts to make informed inventory planning and procurement decisions.
Monitor competitor activities, product availability, and emerging market trends that could impact product demand.
Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to align inventory levels with promotions, product launches, and demand-generating activities.
Communicate inventory status and forecasted stock needs to stakeholders, including finance, operations, and senior management.
Work with distribution center managers to ensure smooth inventory flow and resolve any stock discrepancies or logistical issues.
Regularly report on key metrics, such as stock turnover rates, stock discrepancies, product lead times, and supplier performance.
Continuously analyze inventory performance across distribution centers and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service levels.
Develop and implement processes to reduce excess inventory and obsolescence.
What We Offer
Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Company-paid short-term disability insurance and life insurance.
Paid training, generous paid time off, and holidays.
401k with company match.
Employee discount programs.
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
Competitive compensation package that rewards your experience and results.
Qualifications
Strong analytical skills with experience in inventory forecasting, demand planning, and procurement.
Proficiency in inventory management software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
Knowledge of supply chain management, logistics, and distribution center operations.
Ability to manage multiple distribution centers and optimize stock across different locations.
Strong communication and negotiation skills, especially when dealing with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Awareness of market trends, customer buying behavior, and the impact of external factors on supply and demand.
Problem-solving ability, particularly in managing urgent stock shortages or overstock situations.
Key Metrics for Success
Stock turnover rate and product availability.
Reduction of stockouts and overstock situations.
Optimization of inventory holding costs across all locations.
Supplier performance and lead time improvements.
Alignment of inventory levels with customer demand and market trends.
Expected Background
Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field.
3+ years of experience in inventory management, procurement, or supply chain roles, ideally in a multi-distribution center environment.
Familiarity with forecasting techniques, market analysis, and procurement strategies.
Why Join Berk Enterprises? At Berk Enterprises, our culture and core values are the foundation of our success. We are a rapidly growing company that thrives on flexibility, innovation, and excellence. The successful candidate will thrive in our fast-paced environment, where critical deadlines are the norm, and opportunities for growth and development are abundant.