The Inventory Controller is a key role in the business to ensure smooth operations of inventory management, stock movement and all communication and record keeping to ensure that the Procurement & Supply Chain function supports the operational needs of the organization. The Inventory Controller is responsible for maintaining accurate inventory records against physical stock movement, managing stock levels, and ensuring efficient distribution of goods to customers & inter-branch stock transfers. This role involves regular physical stock counts, reporting discrepancies, liaising with branches, and giving insights into stock forecasting and planning processes.

KEY WORK OUTPUTS & ACCOUNTABILITIES:

1. Maintaining and Updating Inventory Records

• Keep accurate and up-to-date records of all inventory transactions and movements.
• Update inventory databases with new stock arrivals including Import and Local stock, stock movements.
• Tracking & recording physical stock transfers, issue-outs and distribution stock according to forecasts.
• Highlighting and record-keeping on received stock variances.

2. Counting Materials, Equipment, Merchandise, or Supplies in Stock

• Conduct regular physical inventory counts and ensure that physical stock levels match system records on Business Central.
• Perform spot checks and full inventory counts as scheduled.
• Analysing stock count variances if any, and conducting recounts.
• Reconciling stock variances with inter-branch teams to resolve inter-branch stock variances and processing transfers where necessary.

3. Reporting Discrepancies Between Physical Counts and Computer Records

• Investigate and report any discrepancies between physical counts and inventory records on Business Central.
• Work with relevant branches to resolve discrepancies and adjust records as needed.

4. Distributing or Stocking Merchandise

• Manage the distribution of merchandise to various branches or locations as required.
• Ensure that stock is appropriately stocked, arranged, and stored according to best practices (5S Methodology).
• Picking and packing of outgoing stock shipments.
• Liaising with transport companies to make shipping arrangements to branches.
• Following up with transport companies on delivery status.
• Sending delivery updates and tracking information to the branches.

5. Receiving and Inventorying Stock

• Receive incoming shipments, verify the accuracy of order quantities, and inspect goods for damage.
• Update inventory records to reflect new stock and ensure all products are properly logged Business Central.

6. Liaising with Branches on Stock Requirements

• Communicate with branch managers to understand and manage their stock requirements.
• Liaise with branch administrators, supervisors and inventory controllers on stock requirements.
• Coordinate with branches to ensure timely delivery of merchandise and resolve any stock-related issues.
• Fielding sales team’s stock requests and making sure that they send stock requests through their respective branches.

7. Upkeep of Stock Forecasting and Planning

• Join and give insights into regional forecasting meetings and ExCo forecasting meetings.
• Isolating forecast stock in line with approved forecasts.
• Monitor inventory levels and forecast future stock needs based on historical data and sales trends.
• Develop and implement inventory plans to ensure that stock levels meet demand without overstocking.

8. Ad-hoc Tasks as Assigned

• Operate a Forklift as and when required at the SSC.
• Assist Initial and Pest Control branches with offloading incoming stock by forklift.
• Perform other inventory-related tasks and support the team as requested by the supervisor or manager.
• Assist in the development and implementation of inventory control policies and procedures.

Requirements

SKILLS and COMPETENCIES

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping.
• Good planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to prepare correct and effective reports.
• Auditing skills & ability to work effectively with various departments and branches.
• Good interpersonal skills and communication skills at all levels.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Ability to develop and implement standard operating procedures.
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment with little supervision.
• Computer literate in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of a National Diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Permit to operate a Forklift.

Benefits

Medical Aid

Pension Fund