Inventory Control and Procurement Specialist

Job Summary:
The Inventory Control and Procurement Specialist is responsible for managing the companys inventory levels and procurement processes to ensure the availability of materials and supplies necessary for uninterrupted operations. This role requires a proactive approach to inventory management, supplier relationships, cost control, and compliance with company policies and industry standards.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Inventory Control

• Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels to meet production and operational needs while minimizing carrying costs.
• With the warehouse team and off-site locations, coordinate regular cycle counts and full inventory audits to ensure accuracy.
• Analyze inventory data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement.
• Implement and manage inventory control systems, including ERP software, to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Coordinate with production and sales teams to forecast demand and prevent overstock or stockouts.
• Manage off-site inventory levels, including creating, monitoring, and receiving transfer orders.
• Process orders from offsite facilities and reconcile inventory discrepancies.

Procurement

• Working with the Director of Supply Chain and appropriate plant management, source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers to secure the best terms for quality, cost, and delivery.
• Plan, schedule, process, and monitor all subcontractors and subcontracted orders.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders in alignment with company policies and production schedules.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure reliability and responsiveness.
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues related to delivery delays, quality, or compliance.
• Research and recommend alternative suppliers or materials to mitigate risk and improve cost-effectiveness.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Create and maintain detailed records of inventory transactions, procurement activities, and supplier agreements.
• Generate regular reports on inventory metrics, procurement performance, and cost analysis.
• Provide actionable insights to management for decision-making based on data trends.

Compliance and Best Practices

• Ensure adherence to company policies, industry regulations, and ethical procurement standards.
• Stay informed about market trends, supply chain developments, and emerging risks.
• Implement best practices for inventory management and procurement to enhance operational efficiency.

Quality Support

• Assist the quality department with maintaining supplier records and ingredient documents.
• Collaborate with the quality team to ensure all procurement activities align with quality standards and compliance requirements.

Production and Plant Support

• Perform various support functions for production and other plant departments. This may include back-up for scheduling and consumption functions.
• Execute ERP system tasks, including item setup, bill of materials (BOM) setup and management, and related activities.
• Provide technical support and assistance for ERP-related processes across departments.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in inventory management, procurement, or supply chain roles.
• Experience with ERP systems and inventory management software (e.g., Aptean, SAP, Oracle, or similar).

Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent negotiation and communication abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment

• Office environment with occasional visits to warehouses or production facilities.
• May require lifting and moving inventory items up to 50 lbs.
• Occasional travel to supplier locations as needed.