Strategic Inventory Accounting Manager (12-Month FTC)

Ralph Lauren; Watford; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Ralph Lauren is seeking an Inventory Manager on a 12‑month FTC to oversee inventory accounting and reporting across the business. You will ensure accuracy, compliance, and alignment with financial objectives, with expertise in standard costing, PPV, and audit readiness.

The role requires independent operation in a fast-paced environment, partnering with FP&A, Supply Chain and the Reporting Team to optimise inventory strategy and forecasting. Strong ERP and Excel skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Retail inventory management experience required.
• Knowledge of standard costing, PPV, and inventory valuation methods.
• Forecasting and inventory planning experience.
• Month-end close and financial reporting responsibilities.
• SOX/Internal Audit/external audit experience desirable.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end inventory processes across DTC and wholesale channels.
• Ensure accurate recording, valuation and reconciliation of inventory balances.
• Maintain controls over inventory movements, adjustments and reserves (NRV, obsolescence).
• Partner with FP&A, Supply Chain and Reporting Teams on inventory strategy.
• Manage standard costing processes, including cost updates and variance analysis.
• Analyze PPV and drivers impacting margin.
• Collaborate with Procurement and FP&A for cost planning and reporting.
• Support inventory forecasting including freight, PPV, duties and balance sheet items.
• Provide inventory risk/opportunity insights from trends and actuals.
• Align inventory projections with financial forecasts with FP&A.
• Facilitate month-end close activities and timely reporting.
• Prepare journal entries, reconciliations and variance analysis.
• Ensure internal controls and policies are followed.
• Deliver high-quality inventory reports for management.
• Act as key contact for auditors (SOX, EY).
• Audit-ready documentation and controls; support audit findings.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Stakeholder management

Communication

Self-motivation

Multitasking

Education

ACCA / CIMA / CPA or equivalent

Tools

SAP S/4HANA

ECC

Excel

Job description

Ralph Lauren is seeking an Inventory Manager on a 12‑month FTC to oversee inventory accounting and reporting across the business. You will ensure accuracy, compliance, and alignment with financial objectives, with expertise in standard costing, PPV, and audit readiness.

The role requires independent operation in a fast-paced environment, partnering with FP&A, Supply Chain and the Reporting Team to optimise inventory strategy and forecasting. Strong ERP and Excel skills are essential.