National Accessories Inventory Planning Manager

Subaru•Camden, NJ

7d•$120,000 - $155,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Leads the strategic planning and optimization of Subaru of America's accessory inventory network, directing a team of Inventory Planners and collaborating cross-functionally to align inventory investment, supply flow, and operational execution with business objectives. Drives planning processes, systems, and inventory strategies that enhance customer experience, support sales growth, maximize profitability, and ensure the efficient distribution of accessories across Regional Distribution Centers, port facilities, independent distributors, and export operations.

Requirements

Clear understanding of the order-to-fulfillment cycle and basic supply chain strategies and tactics.
Effective written and verbal communication skills enabling communication across all levels of the organization, from the executive team to warehouse associates.
Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with time-sensitive tasks.
Ability to collaborate extensively with numerous cross-functional departments.
Out-of-the box thinking style for continuous process improvements.
Ability to effectively multi-task.
Knowledge of production manufacturing and port operations.
Advanced skills in Microsoft Office and parts planning system experience – Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Kinaxis, Oracle, BlueYonder, Xelus or similar.
Excellent project and vendor management skills.
Bachelor's degree and Master's Degree Master's in Business Administration (MBA) preferred. with 10-12 years of work experience in all aspects of forecasting, planning, accessory sales, and/or distribution required.

Nice To Haves

APICS Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) Certification, upon Hire preferred
APICS Certified in Supply Chain Certification (CSCP) Certification, upon Hire Preferred

Responsibilities

Lead, develop, and manage a team of Inventory Planners and a Planning Analyst. Establish departmental priorities, performance objectives, succession plans, and talent development strategies. Build organizational planning capability through coaching, mentoring, and performance management while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Develop and execute national inventory strategies that balance inventory investment, product availability, service levels, and operational efficiency. Define inventory planning policies, stocking strategies, allocation methodologies, and replenishment approaches to optimize inventory productivity and working capital performance. Lead strategic inventory reviews and planning initiatives that support business growth and inventory optimization.
Serve as the primary planning leader and subject matter expert for accessories inventory strategy. Partner with Product Development, Finance, Distribution, IT, and Supply Chain stakeholders to drive alignment, resolve business challenges, and support organizational objectives. Present strategic recommendations and insights to senior leadership.
Direct forecasting and inventory planning processes to support business growth, changing market conditions, and customer demand. Guide development of long-range forecasts, inventory plans, and scenario analyses that improve planning accuracy and decision-making.
Lead inventory planning activities supporting new product introductions, model launches, product transitions, and end-of-life inventory strategies. Ensure inventory readiness while minimizing excess inventory and obsolescence risk throughout the product lifecycle.
Establish inventory risk management strategies and oversee the identification, escalation, and mitigation of supply risks. Lead contingency planning efforts to ensure inventory availability, business continuity, and achievement of customer service objectives.
Champion continuous improvement initiatives that enhance planning processes, reporting capabilities, systems functionality, and analytical tools. Partner with IT and business stakeholders to drive automation, planning system enhancements, and data-driven decision making.
Monitor and drive performance against key inventory, service, and forecasting metrics. Partner with Finance to optimize inventory investment, improve working capital performance, and ensure inventory governance and compliance with internal controls.
Works with IT and various business units to develop reporting and system tools to drive efficiency and collaboration.
Conducts daily review of high-priority or assigned stock keeping units (SKUs) in support of active issue management and backorder reduction.