Pharma Inventory Planner - Data-Driven & Cross-Functional

Fresenius Kabi USA; Lake Zurich (IL); On-site; USD 61,000 - 71,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with company contribution

Medical, dental and vision coverage

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Wellness program

Job summary

Fresenius Kabi USA is seeking an Inventory Planner to support planning and management of pharmaceutical finished goods inventory, ensuring product availability while maintaining optimal levels.

You will monitor inventory performance, collaborate with Manufacturing, Distribution Centers, Customer Service, and Quality, and participate in S&OP processes to minimize backorders and obsolescence. Strong data analysis, ERP proficiency, and cross-functional communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in supply chain, manufacturing, distribution, logistics, inventory management, or related field preferred.
• Demonstrated understanding of supply chain fundamentals, inventory management, demand and supply planning, and inventory control practices.
• Ability to analyze inventory data, identify trends, and support recommendations related to inventory levels, material availability, and operational performance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to investigate issues, perform root cause analysis, and support corrective actions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with cross-functional collaboration in a diverse, global business environment.
• Ability to develop and maintain relationships with Purchasing, Manufacturing, Operations, Sales, Customer Service, and Finance.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to prioritize multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail, accuracy, and follow-through in inventory activities and reporting.
• Ability to identify issues, communicate impacts, and elevate concerns appropriately.
• Proactive approach to learn new processes, systems, and supply chain concepts.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for data analysis, reporting, and spreadsheet management.
• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP or similar planning systems.

Responsibilities

• Monitor pharmaceutical finished goods inventory to maintain optimal levels and support customer service and business objectives.
• Analyze inventory positions across the distribution network and recommend balancing actions to maximize turns and minimize excess/obsolete inventory.
• Coordinate inventory transfers between distribution centers to optimize network inventory levels.
• Monitor inventory approaching expiration and coordinate redistribution or disposition strategies to reduce obsolescence.
• Review blocked or quarantined inventory and coordinate disposition with Quality, Manufacturing, and Distribution teams.
• Monitor supply situations, identify shortages or excess inventory, and communicate risks and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Utilize inventory planning tools, ERP systems, and supply modeling to resolve low-stock or excess inventory situations.
• Participate in the monthly S&OP process with inventory analyses and decision support.
• Develop and maintain inventory reports, dashboards, and KPIs to monitor health and inform decisions.
• Support SKU rationalization by reporting milestones and coordinating disposition activities.
• Assist with planning and execution of charitable donation opportunities or other approved disposition programs.
• Identify inventory exceptions and data discrepancies, investigate root causes, and coordinate corrective actions.

Skills

Inventory management

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Time management

Data analysis

ERP systems knowledge

SAP experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

SAP ERP

Job description

Fresenius Kabi USA is seeking an Inventory Planner to support planning and management of pharmaceutical finished goods inventory, ensuring product availability while maintaining optimal levels.

You will monitor inventory performance, collaborate with Manufacturing, Distribution Centers, Customer Service, and Quality, and participate in S&OP processes to minimize backorders and obsolescence. Strong data analysis, ERP proficiency, and cross-functional communication are essential.