Job Description

Inventory Control Manager

Position Summary

The Inventory Control Manager is responsible for developing, leading, and optimizing all inventory control functions within the distribution center. This position ensures the accuracy, integrity, and accountability of inventory through effective leadership, process management, data analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives. The Inventory Control Manager partners with Operations, Supply Chain, Transportation, and other business leaders to drive inventory accuracy, minimize shrink, improve operational efficiency, and support exceptional service levels.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all inventory control operations and processes within the distribution center.
• Develop and execute strategies to achieve inventory accuracy, shrink, and operational performance goals.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development for Inventory Control associates and supervisors.
• Oversee cycle count programs, audits, and physical inventory activities to ensure compliance and accuracy.
• Analyze inventory discrepancies and partner with cross-functional teams to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Establish and maintain inventory control policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Monitor inventory transactions, adjustments, and system activities to ensure compliance with company standards.
• Review inventory performance metrics and communicate results to site and corporate leadership.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on inventory accuracy, process efficiency, and cost reduction.
• Partner with Operations leadership to improve inventory-related processes including receiving, putaway, replenishment, selection,  and shipping.
• Ensure inventory control processes support customer service, productivity, and financial objectives.
• Manage and support Warehouse Management System (WMS) inventory functions, testing, and process enhancements.
• Develop action plans to address inventory risks, trends, and operational challenges.
• Prepare and present inventory performance updates, recommendations, and improvement plans to leadership.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage departmental staffing, scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop Inventory Control team members to maximize performance and career growth.
• Establish clear expectations, accountability, and performance standards.
• Drive a culture of operational excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Partner with department managers and senior leaders to achieve organizational goals.
• Conduct performance evaluations and address performance opportunities through coaching and corrective action processes.
• Support succession planning and talent development efforts within the department.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• 3+ years of inventory control, warehouse, distribution, logistics, or supply chain experience.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing teams in a distribution, manufacturing, or warehouse environment.
• Experience managing inventory audits, cycle counting programs, and financial inventory controls.
• Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and inventory management applications.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong communication, organizational, and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field.
• Experience in a high-volume distribution center environment.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certification.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Inventory accuracy percentage.
• Cycle count completion and accuracy.
• Inventory adjustment dollars.
• Inventory shrink percentage.
• Audit performance and compliance scores.
• Root cause resolution effectiveness.
• Operational productivity and service metrics.
• Team engagement, retention, and development.
• Continuous improvement project results.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout a warehouse environment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to work in varying warehouse temperatures and conditions.
• Ability to travel occasionally as business needs require.

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