Inventory Control & Supplier Performance Analyst

About the Role

The Inventory Control & Supplier Performance Analyst monitors, analyzes, and optimizes inventory levels to support operational and production requirements while minimizing inventory-related costs. This role maintains accurate inventory records, investigates inventory discrepancies, and provides data-driven insights to improve inventory performance and inventory control processes. The Analyst collaborates closely with Purchasing, Maintenance, Operations, and other cross-functional teams to support inventory accuracy, working capital objectives, and continuous improvement initiatives. This is an individual contributor role requiring strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Key Responsibilities

Inventory Analysis & Control

• Monitor inventory levels and maintain accurate inventory records within the ERP system.
• Analyze inventory transactions and investigate discrepancies to ensure inventory accuracy.
• Reconcile inventory variances and identify root causes of inventory issues.
• Monitor and support cycle count and physical inventory activities.
• Ensure compliance with inventory control procedures and company policies.

Inventory Optimization & Continuous Improvement

• Analyze inventory trends and recommend actions to optimize inventory levels and reduce excess inventory.
• Support initiatives to improve inventory accuracy and reduce emergency purchases.
• Monitor slow-moving and obsolete inventory and recommend corrective actions.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects focused on inventory management and operational efficiency.
• Assist with inventory planning activities that support production and operational requirements.

Reporting & Business Support

• Maintain inventory-related reports, dashboards, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Communicate inventory metrics, trends, and findings to key stakeholders.
• Provide analytical support for inventory reduction and working capital improvement initiatives.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing and validating inventory-related data.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Purchasing, Maintenance, Warehouse, and Operations teams to ensure accurate inventory transactions and material movements.
• Assist with implementation and administration of inventory programs, including Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) and consignment inventory initiatives.
• Support equipment installations and inventory transitions associated with operational changes.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies.

Requirements & Tech Stack

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of inventory management principles and control practices.
• Knowledge of cycle counting, inventory reconciliation, accuracy measurement, and root cause analysis.
• Familiarity with inventory optimization methods, including safety stock, reorder points, FIFO/FEFO, and ABC analysis.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing, supply chain, and warehouse operations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interpret data, identify trends, and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including PivotTables, XLOOKUP/VLOOKUP, and data analysis functions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across departments and functional areas.
• Strong organizational skills with close attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Continuous improvement mindset focused on operational efficiency and process enhancement.
• Experience with Power BI or comparable reporting tools is preferred.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Accounting, Industrial Engineering, or a related field required.
• Relevant certifications in inventory management, supply chain management, or continuous improvement are preferred.

Experience

• Internship, co-op, or prior experience in a manufacturing or supply chain environment preferred.
• Experience using ERP, inventory management, or enterprise asset management systems preferred.