Director, Global Inventory Management

Merck • Upper Gwynedd Township, PA

23h • $156,900 - $247,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a strategic and experienced professional to join our Global Supply Chain Management organization as the Director of Global Inventory Management. This pivotal role is responsible for guiding our global inventory strategy, overseeing key business processes, and supporting performance to meet our financial and operational objectives. The ideal candidate will manage a dedicated team and collaborate with senior stakeholders across the business to optimize our inventory position, enhance reporting capabilities, and implement continuous process improvements. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled professional to make a significant impact following the retirement of a long-standing incumbent.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, Engineering, or a related field; a graduate degree (MS/MBA) is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in Supply Chain Management, Production Planning, or Finance, with a strong focus on inventory management.
• Proven experience in a leadership role with the ability to manage multiple projects, lead cross-functional teams, and deliver results in a dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
• Proficiency with modern planning platforms, preferably Kinaxis Maestro, and proficiency with data visualization tools like Qlik and Power BI.
• Strong technical skills, including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, advanced functions) and MS Access.
• Comprehensive understanding of product lines, master data, and physical and financial supply chains.
• Excellent business acumen and strategic thinking, with outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English.

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency in batch scripting, Mantis Dbeaver, Informatica, Hana Studio, as well as an understanding of DB structure is a plus.
• A willingness to learn SQL for data analysis is highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee key global inventory management business processes, including joint inventory close execution with COSI, performance reporting, forecasting (LROP, budget), and variance analysis.
• Lead the annual LROP process and production tally processes to drive financial forecasts and profit plans.
• Oversee the Global IQV process, inventory reconciliation, audit support, and dispute resolution.
• Establish timelines for critical activities, generate and analyze comprehensive reports, and present data-driven insights and strategic recommendations to senior management.
• Manage cross-functional teams and collaborate closely with E2E Planners, Product Leaders, Financial Services (COSI, FP&A), and manufacturing sites to ensure the successful execution of inventory strategies.
• Act as the primary liaison with our finance departments to analyze variances to plan, reconcile results, and ensure the highest degree of data integrity in our financial reporting.
• Support the continuous development and enhancement of our IT infrastructure, including Kinaxis Maestro, Qlik, and Power BI reporting platforms, to support inventory management processes.
• Identify opportunities for inventory reduction, process automation, and efficiency gains; lead the implementation of changes to improve supply chain results.
• Promote best practices in inventory management by communicating the impact of inventory decisions on service levels and financial metrics to internal stakeholders.
• Provide leadership, training, and mentorship on analytical tools, inventory management principles, and key business processes.

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family)
• retirement benefits, including 401(k)
• paid holidays
• vacation
• compassionate and sick days
• annual bonus
• long-term incentive

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director