Inventory and Risk Manager - Centurion at ESKORT

The purpose of the job for the ideal candidate will be –

• To play a crucial role in managing and optimising overall Company stock inventory processes and planning for all manufacturing units.
• To take full responsibility for reducing overall stock retuns in the retail operations network, to 2%.
• Overseeing the efficient handling of product returns, ensuring customer satisfaction, implementing strategies to minimise returns, constant engagement with the internal sales team and other departments within the Company.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field (preferred)

EXPERIENCE:

• 4-6 years proven experience in a similar role, preferably in a manufacturing or retail environment.

SKILLS:

• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Collaborate effectively internally and with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work independantly and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Strong understanding of returns management processes and best practices.
• Strong understanding of inventory managemnet proecesses.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS: 

1. Returns Process Management

• Develop and implement efficient processes for analysing, controlling and reporting on all returns/waste nationally.
• Ensure close collaboration with The SRC Luminate team and Clover/Vector to implement strategies to control waste and returns by region and store.
• Coordinate with various departments, including customer service, sales agents, and quality control to streamline the returns processes and resolve issues promptly.
• Maintain accurate records of returned items, reasons for return, and strategies by region and banner.
• Conduct thorough inspections of returned products to determine their condition and identify any defects or damages in collaboration with Clover and Vector.
• Develop and implement a returns management process in collaboration with Clover/Vector and SRC/Luminate to ensure sign off on store returns.
• Collaborate with the quality control team and Clover/Vector sales team to assess the root causes of returns and implement corrective actions to prevent the recurrence.

2. Stock Optimization

• Develop a robust plan to optimize the correct stock holding in all direct and indirect Distribution Centres nationally.
• Manage weekly forecasting with relevant parties.
• Manage and resolve all near dated stock items with the sales teams.

3. Customer Communication and Resolution

• Serve as the primary point of contact of authorising returned products, determine their condition, and identify any defects or damages.
• Communicate return policies and procedures clearly and effectively to consumers, helping and guiding them as needed.
• Set up weekly communication sessions to discuss and manage all returns/waste related problems and implement fixes.
• Work closely woth customer service representatives to address customer concerns and facilitate the resolution of return-related issues in a timely manner.

4. Data Analysis and Reporting

• Analyse return trends and patterns to identify areas for implementation and opportunities to reduce return rates.
• Optimize all SKU stock levels in all customer outlets and Distribution Centres.
• Generate regular reports on return metrics, including return rates, reasons for return and disposition outcomes.
• Use data-driven insights to recommend strategies for minimising returns and improving overall customer satisfaction.  

5. Supplier and Vendor Management

• Implement strategies to minimise waste/returns with all vendors and track progress daily.
• Collaborate with customers and vendors to address product quality issues and facilitate the return of defective or non-conforming items.
• Negotiate return agreements and terms with suppliers to ensure favourable outcomes for the Company.
• Monitor supplier performance and adherence to return KPI’s, taking corrective action as necessary.