Inventory Optimization Manager

The Inventory Optimization Manager balances inventory across the distribution network to maximize customer service while minimizing total cost and operational burden. This role owns the inventory optimization model and turns model outputs into actionable stocking policies and replenishment decisions. The Inventory Optimization Manager also strengthens master data and planning parameters (e.g., lead times, service levels, MOQs, safety-stock inputs) to improve optimization accuracy and sustain performance.

Key Responsibilities

Network Inventory Optimization & Service

Optimize network inventory to meet demand and service targets while controlling working capital, labor, and total delivered cost.

Balance inventory across U.S. and Canada distribution centers to reduce stockouts, excess/obsolete inventory, and avoidable transfers/expedites.

Recommend SKU- and location-level stocking strategies (e.g., hub-and-spoke, forward stocking, rationalization) aligned to demand patterns.

Improve fill rate, on-time delivery, and backorder performance by positioning inventory where it best supports customers.

Model Ownership & Optimization Governance

Own and continuously improve the inventory optimization model (inputs, assumptions, parameter logic, and outputs) including implementation and ownership of IO module in SAP

Convert recommendations into clear stocking targets (min/max, safety stock, reorder points) and replenishment policies.

Validate outputs through scenario testing and root-cause analysis to ensure recommendations are realistic and executable.

Monitor model performance and forecast-error impacts, and refine policies over time to improve results.

Master Data & Planning Parameter Excellence

Improve master data required for optimization (e.g., lead times, order cycles, service levels, cost data, pack sizes, supplier constraints, ABC-XYZ classifications).

Establish routines and controls to ensure data accuracy and governance (audit checks, exception reporting, data-quality scorecards).

Partner with operations, purchasing, sales, and IT to resolve systemic data issues that drive service gaps, excess inventory, or avoidable cost.

Cross-Functional Execution & Continuous Improvement

Collaborate with DC operations to ensure replenishment and stocking policies support efficient labor planning and warehouse execution. Support effective transfer process in conjunction with Logistics team.

Partner with transportation and logistics to minimize inter-DC transfers, premium freight, and unnecessary touches.

Coordinate with demand planning and purchasing to adjust strategies for changes in variability, seasonality, promotions, and product lifecycle events.

Lead continuous improvement initiatives to reduce inventory cost while maintaining or improving customer service.

Performance Management & Reporting

Track and report performance using KPIs such as fill rate, OTIF, backorders, inventory turns, days of supply, slow moving & obsolete (SLOB), transfer volume, expedite spend, and forecast-accuracy impacts.

Develop actionable insights (exception-based dashboards, heat maps, driver analysis) to support network decisions.

Provide regular recommendations and executive-ready summaries on network health, risks, and opportunities.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain or equivalent experience.

Minimum of 5 years’ experience in inventory planning and optimization and supply chain leadership

Strong data-collection and analytical skills

High proficiency in Microsoft Excel (lookups, pivot tables, etc.)

SAP S/4 and IBP IO experience preferred.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects and related tasks.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with strong attention to detail.

Working Conditions

This position is primarily in-office and based in a manufacturing and warehouse environment, with occasional project-based travel.

Physical Demands

Job requires both sitting and standing. Excellent vision, hearing, speech, and motor skills are required to perform essential job functions.