Inventory Manager

Job Overview:

The Inventory Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of inventory control, ensuring the optimal storage, distribution, and movement of dates within the warehouse and throughout the supply chain. This role requires strong attention to detail, exceptional organizational skills, and a deep understanding of the inventory lifecycle in the dates industry. The Inventory Manager will work closely with suppliers, distributors, and internal teams to maintain accurate stock levels, ensure product quality, and optimize inventory flow.

Key Responsibilities:

Inventory Management:

• Oversee daily inventory operations, including receiving, storing, and distributing dates.
• Monitor stock levels, ensuring they meet demand forecasts while minimizing overstock and stockouts.
• Conduct regular physical counts and cycle counts to ensure inventory accuracy.
• Utilize inventory management software to track and update stock levels, order statuses, and warehouse conditions.
• Implement and maintain inventory control systems and procedures to ensure efficiency and accuracy.

Supplier and Vendor Coordination:

• Collaborate with suppliers and vendors to maintain timely and accurate delivery schedules for raw materials and finished products.
• Ensure quality standards and specifications are met when receiving shipments.
• Negotiate with suppliers to optimize costs, delivery schedules, and order quantities.

Warehouse Operations:

• Supervise the organization, cleanliness, and maintenance of the warehouse.
• Ensure that the dates are stored under appropriate conditions to preserve quality and freshness.
• Monitor the movement of goods in the warehouse, ensuring proper handling and compliance with safety standards.
• Implement efficient picking and packing processes to meet order fulfillment timelines.

Reporting and Documentation:

• Maintain accurate inventory records and generate regular reports on stock levels, inventory turnover, and order status.
• Provide insights to senior management regarding trends, challenges, and opportunities for inventory optimization.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and safety standards related to food storage and distribution.

Team Management and Training:

• Supervise and train inventory control staff, ensuring they understand best practices for handling, storing, and tracking dates.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, seeking ways to streamline operations and reduce costs.

Quality Control:

• Ensure that all incoming and outgoing products meet quality standards and are properly documented.
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to resolve any product issues related to inventory.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Logistics, or related field.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in inventory management, preferably in the dates industry.
• Strong understanding of inventory control systems and techniques.
• Experience with warehouse management software (WMS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to maintaining accurate records.
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of the dates industry, including harvesting, processing, and packaging methods.
• Experience working with perishable goods and understanding their specific storage and handling requirements.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for food safety and storage.