Inventory Planner

Dairy Farmers of America•Riverside, CA

About The Position

The Inventory Planner is responsible for managing finished goods inventory to meet demand and supply needs. This role involves preparing, monitoring, and coordinating inventory status reports, taking a proactive approach to supply shortages, stock outs, and cost savings analysis. The planner will also perform research and data analysis to ensure Key Performance Indicators are at target levels according to established standards.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree in supply chain or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education)
2 to 5 years of inventory, sales and operations planning, production planning, or related experience
Knowledge of inventory management practices and principles
Knowledge of company computer systems and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and SAP or similar ERP planning systems
Solid communication skills with ability to shift style with audience
Analytical and problem-solving skills
Able to work collaboratively and elicit cooperation from variety of sources, including management, production planning, quality teams, logistics, procurement, etc.
Able to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalism
Able to multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines for multiple assignments or projects
Must be able to read, write and speak English

Nice To Haves

Certification and/or License – may be required during course of employment

Responsibilities

Collaborate with other teams, such as supply planning and production planning, on inventory availability for customer orders
Monitor inventory levels to ensure stock availability and minimize excesses; coordinate the repositioning of inventory as needed to meet customer requirements
Develop action plans to resolve excess and “stranded” inventory levels working closely with sales, finance, and other planning teams to mitigate financial impacts
Develop improved inventory management processes by establishing inventory strategies, improving systems, and developing procedures for communication to stakeholders
Oversee stock levels to ensure materials are in right location, ensure utilization of product rotation best practices, and develop action plans for slow moving/obsolete materials
Oversee the disposition of distressed inventory, work closely with plants to minimize rework and timely utilization, and/or sell off of distressed inventory
Ensure the successful execution of the inventory allocation process
Develop standard inventory reporting, report inventory trends, and action plan tracking
Lead weekly and monthly inventory meetings; participate in weekly and monthly production planning meetings
Monitor key performance metrics, such as delivery in full, on time (DIFOT), inventory days on hand, and distressed inventory reduction targets