Inventory Optimization Specialist

The Kendall Group
United States, Michigan, Portage
5101 South Sprinkle Road (Show on map)
Jan 07, 2025
Inventory Optimization Specialist About The Kendall Group The Kendall Group seeks a talented, creative, self-motivated individual for our Inventory Optimization Specialist position. The Kendall Group is comprised of seven divisions with 75+ locations in eleven states. Combined, we serve the Electrical, Automation, Pipe, Valve, and Fittings products, Steam, Lighting, Industrial Controls, and Instrumentation Industries. The Kendall Group is a 100% employee-owned company. Kendall offers a great opportunity for a rewarding career. Why The Kendall Group? Our employee ownership model is the core of who we are. You will not only own part of the company, but you will own your future. At Kendall, you'll have opportunities to learn and grow while being coached and mentored along the way. We're that company where people stay! We're proud to say that more than 60% of our associates have more than 5 years of tenure, and more than 40% have greater than 10 years. At Kendall, you will be valued and supported, your ideas will be heard, your voice will matter, and you'll work alongside incredible people who care about your success. Role Summary: Reporting to the Purchasing and Pricing Manager, the Inventory Optimization Specialist is responsible for supporting the return function of Inventory Control. This will include developing relationships with our vendors to facilitate the return of material, creating reports to help Buyers/Inventory Control team improve processes and training sales team on vendor policies. Exciting work you will do: The essential duties and responsibilities of the Inventory Optimization Specialist position will consist of, but are not limited to, the following: Develop stock rotation schedule with vendors Understand and follow vendor stocking requirements and guidelines Analyze inventory data to determine slow moving product and enhance inventory mix Negotiate returns with Vendors Document and update progress Support buyers with data to improve stocking requirements Create reports in our ERP system Review stagnant inventory and work with buyers, sales team, and vendors to find creative ways to turn Educate and update sales team on vendor policies Other duties as assigned Competencies you possess: Service Excellence Results, Action Oriented Accountability and Responsibility Teamwork and collaboration Problem Solving Strategic Ability Self-starter, self-motivation Materials Management Fundamentals Perseverance What you'll need: Experience: 2 years' inventory management experience Education: High school diploma or GED or bachelor's degree in lieu of 2 years' experience Analytics/Computer Skills: Ability to use standard office equipment, proficient with Microsoft Office products, especially Excel; strong analytical skills; must be able to understand inventory forecasting and modeling Organization Skills: Highly organized and detail-oriented; ability to multi-task and shift priorities as needed; ability to work in fast-paced, continuously evolving environment Cross-functional skills: Self-motivated; ability to train others Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate well with all levels of the organization Physical, Mental and Visual Skills: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disability to perform the essential functions. Ability to see, talk and hear Ability to sit for 8 hours a day Physical Environment: Normal office environment; occasional warehouse, fabrication environment and exposure to moving equipment Qualifications we prefer but don't require: Experience: Knowledge of products and their applications Education: Bachelor's in business administration, supply change management or relevant field The Kendall Group is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, military status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.