The Inventory Manager is responsible for overseeing the complete inventory lifecycle across retail stores, warehouses, and distribution channels. The role ensures optimal stock availability, inventory accuracy, loss prevention, and efficient stock movement while supporting commercial objectives and customer demand. This position plays a critical role in aligning inventory strategy with seasonal collections, production schedules, and sales performance.

 
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Inventory Management
Develop and implement inventory control strategies to optimize stock levels and reduce excess or obsolete inventory.
Monitor inventory performance across all retail locations and distribution channels.
Ensure stock availability aligns with sales forecasts, seasonal demand, and marketing initiatives.
Drive initiatives to reduce shrinkage, stock losses, and inventory discrepancies.
Inventory Analysis & Forecasting
Analyze inventory data, sales trends, and demand patterns to improve stock planning.
Produce accurate inventory reports, dashboards, and performance metrics for senior management.
Forecast stock requirements and identify risks related to overstocking or stock shortages.
Utilize ERP and inventory management systems to support decision-making.
Supply Chain & Stakeholder Coordination
Collaborate with designers, production teams, buyers, suppliers, and logistics partners to ensure inventory availability.
Monitor supplier performance and lead times to support inventory requirements.
Coordinate inventory planning for new product launches and seasonal collections.
Support cross-functional initiatives that improve supply chain efficiency.
Inventory Controls, Audits & Compliance
Lead and manage regular stock counts, cycle counts, and annual inventory audits.
Investigate inventory variances and implement corrective actions.
Develop and maintain inventory policies, procedures, and controls.
Ensure compliance with company standards and inventory governance requirements.
Team Leadership & Development
Manage and mentor inventory personnel, warehouse teams, and inventory clerks.
Establish clear performance expectations and accountability measures.
Provide coaching and training to improve inventory management practices.
Foster a culture of accuracy, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
 
Minimum Requirements
Honours Degree in:Supply Chain Management
Master's Degree advantageous.
Experience
8–10 years of inventory management experience.
Minimum 5 years in a managerial or leadership role.
Proven experience within:Retail,Fashion, Clothing,Luxury goods environments.

Technical Skills
Advanced ERP system experience.
Strong Point-of-Sale (POS) system knowledge.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
Inventory planning and forecasting expertise.
Data analysis and reporting capabilities.
  
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Inventory accuracy percentage
Stock availability rates
Inventory turnover ratio
Shrinkage and loss reduction
Forecast accuracy
Stock reconciliation performance
Audit compliance results
Supplier lead-time adherence
Team productivity and performance
 

Email: Manufacturing@hireresolve.za.com