Job Description
We are seeking a highly capable and results-driven Import Inventory Planner to manage end-to-end inventory planning and replenishment for imported goods. This role is responsible for maintaining optimal stock levels by coordinating closely with overseas suppliers, internal stakeholders (buyers, DC, retail stores), and third-party logistics providers to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods to our Distribution Center (DC).
You are also expected to handle clearance of short shelf life and aging stocks, rectify any shipment issues, acquire compensation for claims raised to suppliers, process allocation to stores, compile inventory-related reports as well as advise on any inventory-related enquiries.
Positioned at an executive level, this role will be responsible not only for optimizing import inventory levels but also for managing cross-functional supply chain projects aimed at improving operational efficiency, cost-to-serve, and inventory accuracy.
Key Responsibilities
Inventory Planning & Replenishment
- Plan and execute orders based on demand forecasts, historical sales, and inventory targets.
- Monitor inventory levels to ensure healthy stock availability while minimizing excess and obsolescence.
- Maintain item-level forecasts and order parameters (e.g., lead time, MOQ, order frequency).
- Maintain master data accuracy (e.g., MOQ, lead time, safety stock) to ensure effective planning execution.
Supplier & Buyer Coordination
- Collaborate with overseas suppliers to confirm order quantities, pricing, production schedules, and shipping timelines.
- Work closely with buyers to align order plans with promotional calendars, product launches, and assortment changes.
- Manage supplier communication for order tracking, changes, delays, and documentation requirements.
Logistics & Distribution Coordination
- Liaise with freight forwarders and logistics teams to coordinate shipping modes, booking, and container loading plans.
- Track shipments and ensure timely customs clearance and delivery to the DC.
- Communicate with the DC team to schedule inbound deliveries and resolve any receiving or quality issues.
Stakeholder Communication
- Work cross-functionally with the finance team to ensure accurate and timely supplier invoicing and payment processing.
- Provide regular updates on shipment status, risks, and supply delays to internal stakeholders.
- Generate and share inventory and supply performance reports with relevant teams.
Project & Process Improvement
- Support supply chain and inventory-related improvement projects
- Continuously review planning processes and propose improvements for efficiency, cost savings, or service level enhancement.
- Support supply chain projects and initiatives related to system upgrades, lead time reduction, and supplier performance.
- Partner with internal stakeholders (e.g., procurement, warehouse, commercial, finance) to drive project milestones and deliverables.
Others
- Work location: FairPrice Hub (next to Joo Koon MRT station)
- Working hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 6pm
Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or related field.
- 2–5 years of relevant experience in supply/inventory planning, preferably in the FMCG or retail sector.
- Strong understanding of supply chain principles, inventory management, and logistics processes.
- Proficiency in SAP system and MS Excel
- Experience handling planning responsibilities alongside project management or process improvement work.
- Exceptional analytical and critical-thinking skills.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to influence across functions.
- Comfortable managing complexity and ambiguity in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
- Team player and ability to collaborate and work effectively with a variety of stakeholders etc.
- Able to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment