Retail Inventory Management Specialist

Acts as the liaison for the effective collaboration process between Komatsu North America (KNA) parts operations and global Distributors regarding inventory strategies, stocking policies and supply chain alignment. Utilizes Distributor retail data and field intelligence to make informed parts stocking decisions that provide Distributors improved return on parts investment, better customer support and higher Komatsu brand loyalty. Results are driven via Replenishment Policy Approval (RPA) lists that determine which parts will be stocked by Distributor versus regional or central KNA locations. The RPA process ensures automated order replenishment for our distribution network. Works extensively with internal Komatsu customers to ensure Distributor stocking strategy aligns with KNA and global Komatsu parts objectives.

Scope

Manages inventory collaboration between KNA parts operations and global distribution network (US - 22 Distributors, 231 branch locations; CA - 6 Distributors, 59 locations; global Komatsu affiliates & Distributors). Total inventory value responsibility $270M, representing $800M in global parts sales. Responsible for Distributor RPA development process that determines stocking levels, locations and parts returns of $90M.

* Consult with Distributor parts personnel in order to make strategic part number stocking decisions that optimize Distributor inventories and KNA parts supply chain while providing a high level of availability to end use customers. 20%
* Analyze and monitor key performance indicators (KPI) for Retail Inventory Management (RIM) Distributors. Perform analysis to identify issues and opportunities where KPIs are not meeting target levels and collaborate with DBs to make systematic and process adjustments.20%
* Analyze Distributor retail sales and inventory data that provides Replenishment Policy Approval (RPA) lists to align with each Distributor location's stocking criteria. This process utilizes transmitted Distributor data, KNA inventory planning system and customized web applications.15%
* Communicate through all levels of Distributor organizations to understand and achieve each Distributor's KPIs and long term plans while adjusting for the changing markets and requirements of the Distributor. Communicate with executive level management at KNA and Komatsu Ltd to ensure our internal business partners align with the Distributors needs. 15%
* Collaborate with Distributor IT and business system providers to ensure system integration, promote system enhancements and identify data and file irregularities. 10%
* Manage $90M+ in annual Distributor returns including Policy compliance, ASN management, KNA inventory impact, issue resolution and management of all systems for returns processing and dealer visibility. Work with internal and external auditors to comply with SOX regulations.10%
* Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor. 10%

Required Skills
* Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Supply Chain, or IT. Master's Degree preferred.
* 3-5 years of experience in a related field of Supply Chain management
* Travel requirements (up to 25%, regional travel by car, domestic/international travel by airplane, etc)

Preferred Skills
* Working knowledge of Materials Management processes including forecasting, planning and distribution. Knowledge of industry and Distributor business including inventory practices, DMS collaboration, and enhancement protocols.
* 3-5 years of experience in a related field of Supply Chain management
* Customer support focused
* Professional PC skills and systems knowledge including Microsoft Office suite (Word, Power Point, Excel, and Access). Prior experience with logistics databases and the ability to quickly learn PMATES (parts system), querying tools such as SQL, Power BI, and Microsoft Access
* Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) skills a plus
* Results oriented, bias for action, and extreme sense of urgency
* Professional written and oral communication skills
* Accepts the need for change, communicates and defends the need for change throughout the organization, creates an open and receptive environment
* Embraces accountability and responsibility - individual and shared
* Regular attendance.