Inventory Manager

Job Description & Responsibilities

An inventory manager oversees a warehouse team and monitors a company's inventory levels to ensure it has enough stock to pick, replenish and/or disposition from returns/damages. Their duties typically include working with production, hiring and training new warehouse staff and using data and software to record inventory and reorder stock. Learning more about the responsibilities, skills and requirements of inventory managers can help you determine whether you want to pursue this career.

Inventory manager responsibilities

An inventory manager oversees their employer's products, supplies and materials. They usually supervise warehouse staff and liaise with members of different departments within the business. Inventory managers work in businesses of all sizes in a variety of industries. They may specialize in various types of inventory, such as raw materials or finished goods.

Counting or using computerized inventory monitoring or supply chain software tools to track stock levels accurately

Conducting regular cycle counts or stock takes to determine available inventory

Ordering additional inventory when stocks are low

Sourcing materials from the DC and maintaining relationships with them

Addressing problems in supply and delivery and finding appropriate solutions

Preparing inventory for delivery to the Production

Hiring and training warehouse staff, delegating tasks and creating schedules for them

Studying sales numbers and forecasting future inventory needs

Inventory manager requirements

For an inventory manager position, employers may require you to have the following qualifications:

Education

Require inventory managers to have at least a bachelor's degree in inventory management, supply chain management, operations or business administration. May hire candidates without a degree if they have extensive experience in inventory control and distribution. In college, taking information technology courses can help you develop skills to use supply chain and forecasting software. You may also choose to pursue a master's degree in your chosen discipline, though it's not typically a requirement for the role.

Training

Inventory managers typically work in inventory control or distribution roles before transitioning to this senior position. Working as an warehouse worker can help you become familiar with inventory management and supply chain software. In this role, you can also learn about picking-packing procedures, the use of warehouse equipment and occupational health and safety procedures in the supply chain.

Certifications

While certification is not required, prefer candidates with the Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) designation. You can earn this certification through the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). To become certified, you can pass an examination assessing your skills in supply chains and strategy, inventory, distribution and operations planning, among other areas. You can study for the exam by attending an in-person or online class. The ASCM also offers study materials for purchase if you prefer to study independently. APICS and/or Lean/Six Sigma certification.

Inventory management

Inventory managers have a comprehensive understanding of inventory management techniques so they can monitor stock correctly and order supplies on schedule. You can become familiar with these different processes, such as periodic and perpetual systems, to ensure optimal productivity when completing your tracking duties. It's also helpful to learn about different inventory tracking methods, such as barcode and QR tracking, to manage inventory levels effectively.

Physical fitness

Working as an inventory manager can be physically demanding. Spending much of their workdays standing and walking between business departments, such as the floor, office, or warehouse. You may also use physical fitness skills to lift and move heavy stock within a warehouse.

Leadership

Inventory managers provide guidance, direction and coaching for warehouse team members. Your leadership skills can enable you to motivate teams, settle disputes and keep morale high within the workplace.

Multitasking

Inventory managers often work on several tasks at once. For example, they may oversee staff, count and replenish inventory and communicate with production throughout their workdays.

Attention to detail

An inventory manager is responsible for keeping the correct amount of stock for a company's customers and employees. It requires attention to detail to replenish stock correctly.

Interpersonal skills

Inventory managers rely on their interpersonal skills to interact with production, warehouse staff and professional contacts. You may use your interpersonal skills to develop meaningful relationships so you can secure the options on inventory level.