Inventory Planner

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. • Franklin, TN

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Inventory Planner plays a vital role in ensuring the right parts are available at the right time while balancing inventory cost, service level, and operational efficiency. This position supports Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) parts supply operations by managing demand, inventory levels, and supplier coordination across a complex manufacturing and distribution network.
Due to the complexities of MMNA systems—including Blue Yonder and Royal 4—this role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.
This role is a hybrid role with in office expectations of 2-3 days a week.
Summary of Role:
The Inventory Planner is responsible for optimizing inventory levels to support customer demand, improving forecast accuracy, enhancing inventory visibility, and reducing overall inventory costs. This role collaborates closely with suppliers, manufacturing partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth material flow and timely issue resolution.
Key focus areas include inventory planning, demand forecasting, safety stock management, process improvement, and KPI monitoring. The Inventory Planner uses data and reporting tools to drive informed decision-making, improve operational performance, and contribute to continuous improvement across MMNA’s supply chain.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in a distribution environment involved in a forecasting/procurement capacity.
• Experience working in manufacturing, distribution, or parts supply environments.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and translate insights into actionable plans.
• Previous experience with demand planning software packages (Blue Yonder preferred).
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools for analysis and reporting
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Strong communication and collaboration skills for cross-functional work

Nice To Haves

• BA/BS degree in Business Administration/Statistics or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated history of improving processes and reducing inefficiencies
• Ability to step into ambiguity and create clarity or structure
• Track record of exceeding role expectations to deliver measurable results
• Experience using Microsoft 365 tools to develop scalable, data-driven solutions

Responsibilities

• Maintain optimal inventory levels to meet demand while avoiding overstock or stockouts
• Balance supply and demand to minimize cost and maximize efficiency
• Establish and manage safety stock levels to ensure uninterrupted supply
• Review, edit, and improve demand forecasts to align inventory with customer needs
• Improve forecast accuracy to prevent excess inventory and customer backorders
• Enhance visibility into inventory levels, locations, and movements across systems
• Identify and implement strategies to reduce carrying costs, increase inventory turnover, and minimize waste
• Develop, streamline, and document inventory management processes
• Identify opportunities to automate routine tasks and improve workflow efficiency
• Collaborate with suppliers, manufacturers, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth inventory flow
• Proactively address and resolve supply chain issues impacting service levels
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators, including: Months of supply, Order fulfillment and backorder resolution, Forecast accuracy
• Use data insights to support decision-making and drive continuous improvement
• Other duties as assigned or required.

Benefits

• Ongoing employee development programs
• Community Relations initiatives
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Discounted Employee Lease Car program, covering insurance, maintenance, and registration fees, with no down payment or credit check required.
• 401(k) with Company match and annual contributions based on years of service.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, tuition reimbursement, and employee resource groups.
• Up to 30 days of paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and other leave options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees