What Does An Inventory Supervisor Do?

WHAT DOES AN INVENTORY SUPERVISOR DO?

Published: Nov 05, 2025 - The Inventory Supervisor oversees the movement of raw materials and finished goods across all company operations to ensure efficient production flow and timely customer delivery. This role involves coordinating logistics, warehouse optimization, and cross-department collaboration to maintain accurate inventory records, cost-effective operations, and seamless material handling between internal teams and external vendors. The Supervisor also supports strategic warehousing decisions, verifies shipment and invoice accuracy, and leads initiatives to improve packaging, tracking, and storage processes for maximum operational efficiency.

A Review of Professional Skills and Functions for Inventory Supervisor

1. Inventory Supervisor Overview

Material Planning: Establish material requirement planning to ensure the timely availability of resources.
Demand Analysis: Analyze demand and supply data to plan material needs efficiently.
Inventory Accuracy: Monitor all cycle count programs to verify consistency and accuracy in inventory records.
Issue Resolution: Identify and resolve operational issues that affect stock accuracy or flow.
Documentation Management: Prepare and issue DOI documentation accurately and on schedule.
Inventory Reporting: Compile and report monthly inventory summaries for management review.
Trend Analysis: Highlight trends or variances that may impact production or procurement decisions.
Data Maintenance: Update stock data regularly to reflect real-time inventory movement.
Stock Monitoring: Monitor stock levels to prevent shortages or overstock situations.
Control Implementation: Implement control measures to maintain optimal stock balance.
Stock Supervision: Supervise stock-taking activities to ensure precision and compliance with company standards.

2. Inventory Supervisor Job Description

Policy Compliance: Ensure all staff consistently comply with established security policies and procedures.
Standards Monitoring: Monitor adherence to security standards through regular inspections and reports.
Incident Response: Identify and correct any breaches or lapses in protocol promptly.
Team Collaboration: Foster and maintain a collaborative relationship with the contract security team.
Communication Management: Communicate expectations clearly to ensure cohesive teamwork between internal and contract staff.
Performance Guidance: Provide guidance and feedback to strengthen the performance of the security force.
System Oversight: Oversee the operation and reliability of all electronic security systems.
System Maintenance: Ensure timely maintenance and troubleshooting of any system issues.
Technical Coordination: Coordinate with technical support teams to keep systems up to date.
Safety Implementation: Assist in implementing health and safety directives across the workforce.
Compliance Support: Support compliance efforts for both staff and vendors assigned to the location.

3. Inventory Supervisor Functions

Inventory Strategy: Implement effective inventory management strategies that align with company goals in safety, productivity, and quality.
Operational Alignment: Ensure all inventory operations support high standards of customer service and profitability.
Performance Metrics: Establish performance metrics to evaluate the success of inventory control initiatives.
Staffing Management: Direct staffing plans to ensure adequate coverage for all inventory management functions.
Employee Training: Provide training programs to enhance employee skills and operational efficiency.
Performance Oversight: Oversee performance management processes to drive accountability and improvement.
Inventory Control: Manage and monitor product inventories, including work-in-progress, finished goods, and aged stock.
Data Integrity: Ensure all inventory transactions align with financial reconciliation standards and maintain data integrity.
Task Prioritization: Prioritize daily tasks such as job packet review, cycle counts, and internal audits.
Damage Handling: Supervise the handling of damaged materials to minimize loss and maintain accurate reporting.
Waste Management: Track and control waste to support sustainability and compliance objectives.
Process Improvement: Lead continuous improvement projects focused on optimizing inventory processes.
Information Flow: Enhance the flow of inventory information to ensure transparency and efficiency across departments.

4. Inventory Supervisor Accountabilities

Team Support: Provide ongoing support, mentoring, and professional guidance to inventory analysts.
Resource Enablement: Ensure team members have the tools and knowledge necessary to perform effectively.
Issue Resolution: Verify that analysts promptly address issues raised by store operatives, including stock losses and quality concerns.
Supplier Management: Oversee the investigation and resolution of supplier short shipments to prevent recurrence.
Data Accuracy: Maintain the accuracy of the inventory tracker by ensuring updates occur in real time.
System Monitoring: Monitor system entries to confirm data consistency and traceability.
Crisis Management: Manage suppliers in distress according to established company procedures and escalation processes.
Stakeholder Communication: Foster clear and continuous communication with all internal and external stakeholders.
KPI Management: Review and update key performance indicators to track operational efficiency.
Performance Analysis: Analyze KPI trends to identify improvement opportunities within inventory control.
Process Development: Develop and implement new processes and procedures to strengthen overall inventory management performance.

5. Inventory Supervisor Job Summary

Liaison Role: Act as a liaison between associates and management.
Report Review: Review daily reports, including backorders and negative on-hand inventory.
Task Delegation: Delegate all mandatory count packets and ensure their timely completion.
Production Reconciliation: Oversee the reconciliation of production activities throughout the day.
Inventory Adjustment: Perform inventory transfers to correct location variances once confirmed.
Employee Training: Train new associates and conduct cross-training for existing team members.
Team Supervision: Supervise associates working in other distribution areas.
Operational Leadership: Work in a fast-paced environment and provide direction to support future growth and development.

6. Inventory Supervisor Responsibilities

Scorecard Development: Assist in developing balanced scorecard elements that align with overall corporate strategies.
Performance Collaboration: Collaborate with management to ensure performance metrics accurately reflect organizational objectives.
Training Support: Support training initiatives by serving as an assistant during performance development sessions.
Employee Engagement: Help employees understand key performance indicators and improvement goals.
Data Management: Maintain and update databases to ensure accurate and accessible Operational Excellence data.
Data Verification: Verify data integrity to support decision-making and continuous improvement efforts.
Trend Analysis: Analyze service trends to identify areas for process enhancement and customer satisfaction growth.
Best Practices: Document best practices and emerging service patterns for organizational learning.
Report Preparation: Prepare structured reports summarizing service performance and improvement initiatives.
Findings Presentation: Present findings during formal staff meetings to guide strategic and operational discussions.

7. Inventory Supervisor Details

Record Management: Maintain accurate records of all finished goods inventory.
Stock Monitoring: Monitor stock levels regularly to ensure products are accounted for and properly documented.
Staff Training: Train staff on effective inventory control techniques and standard operating procedures.
Performance Evaluation: Evaluate employee performance to ensure consistency and accuracy in daily inventory tasks.
Inventory Optimization: Assist in maintaining optimal inventory levels to support production and distribution needs.
Loss Prevention: Implement measures to minimize product loss and prevent shrinkage.
Inventory Counting: Conduct routine inventory counts to verify physical stock against system records.
Discrepancy Reconciliation: Reconcile discrepancies between floor counts and recorded shipments.
Variance Investigation: Investigate and document the causes of count variances thoroughly.
Corrective Action: Recommend corrective actions to prevent recurring inventory inconsistencies.

8. Inventory Supervisor Duties

Inventory Management: Manage the inventory tracking system to accurately record deliverables, shipments, and stock levels.
Process Evaluation: Evaluate deliveries, shipments, and product levels to identify and implement improvements in inventory control procedures.
Warehouse Operations: Maintain clean, organized, and safe warehouse operations for all material storage areas, both indoors and outdoors.
Kitting Support: Plan and support kitting requirements within the manufacturing operation to ensure timely material availability.
Transaction Accuracy: Maintain accurate system inventory transactions to reflect real-time material movement.
Process Improvement: Identify and propose improvement opportunities to reduce costs and simplify supply chain processes.
Kanban Management: Conduct routine Kanban reviews on a set schedule to ensure indirect materials are adequately stocked.
Equipment Oversight: Oversee all equipment used for receiving, warehousing, and delivering materials throughout the operation.
Cost Control: Drive cost control measures and maintain budget oversight to minimize waste and achieve cost reduction targets.
SOP Development: Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of inventory management.
Demand Forecasting: Monitor material demand and analyze data to forecast future supply and logistical needs related to inventory management and capacity planning.

9. Inventory Supervisor Details and Accountabilities

Team Coaching: Coach and mentor inventory team members to manage inventory effectively and maintain operational accuracy.
Workload Monitoring: Monitor the completion of daily workloads across all three shifts to ensure productivity and coverage.
Email Management: Oversee the inventory email account, responding to all requests and inquiries promptly.
Cycle Count Prioritization: Review and prioritize cycle counts based on operational needs and discrepancies.
Warehouse Accuracy: Assist in performing cycle counts for the satellite warehouse to ensure consistent accuracy across locations.
Report Review: Review, monitor, and approve key inventory reports, including the backorder tracker.
Count Verification: Ensure cycle counts are conducted properly and all inventory is accurately accounted for and reported in line with company policy.
Discrepancy Resolution: Assist in investigating inventory discrepancies and coordinate resolutions with sales, warehouse teams, and customers.
Issue Analysis: Analyze inventory issues and collaborate with warehouse management to implement necessary procedural improvements.
Performance Review: Conduct quarterly performance reviews for team members to support development and accountability.
Audit Assistance: Assist bank representatives during annual audits to ensure compliance and accuracy of reported inventory data.

10. Inventory Supervisor Tasks

Customer Focus: Drive customer satisfaction by understanding customer needs and developing improved approaches to serve customer centers.
KPI Management: Report and monitor team KPIs to drive focus and performance.
Process Improvement: Continuously identify better ways to gain efficiencies in processes.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work cross-functionally with all service center departments to resolve purchase order, invoice, and inventory discrepancies.
Training Development: Plan and promote training and competence development initiatives.
Brand Representation: Contribute to positive company branding by projecting a knowledgeable, professional, and customer-oriented image to clients.
Standards Compliance: Perform all duties in accordance with company standards while striving to understand customer needs and expectations.
Task Execution: Take appropriate and necessary actions to complete tasks effectively and maintain communication with all personnel required to get the job done.

11. Inventory Supervisor Roles

Team Management: Manage the productivity, efficiency, and quality of the Inventory team.
Personnel Administration: Perform management functions including employment, termination, training, and performance evaluations.
Leadership Guidance: Provide leadership and guidance to team members through daily direction, coaching, and continuous feedback.
Policy Compliance: Assist in monitoring the Inventory team’s compliance with all company policies and safety rules.
Variance Analysis: Analyze inventory variances, proactively correct issues, and identify root causes to prevent recurrence.
Report Analysis: Analyze production and sales reports to prevent overstock situations.
Inventory Control: Lead and perform activities to monitor and maintain inventory control.
Process Optimization: Create and maintain efficient processes to ensure inventory accuracy and reduce variances.
Supply Inspection: Conduct daily inspections proactively to determine supply-related needs.
Team Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with other teams regarding inventory needs and concerns.
Cycle Count Supervision: Supervise cycle counting activities, including counting, reporting, reconciliation, and related functions.
Documentation Management: Prepare paperwork and maintain documentation related to shipping and traffic.
Receiving Coordination: Perform purchase order receiving activities and collaborate with the purchasing committee.
Process Development: Develop and maintain inventory processes and team performance to meet production, quality, and safety objectives.

12. Inventory Supervisor Additional Details

Operational Assessment: Assess the overall impact of operational requirements, inefficiencies, or issues on connected processes and departments.
Process Analysis: Conduct fundamental analyses involving people, technology, and information to support process improvement.
Ergonomic Application: Apply a general understanding of human factors and ergonomics to optimize the use of physical tools and interfaces.
Design Collaboration: Collaborate with teams to identify design needs or recommend modifications that enhance usability and efficiency.
Organizational Insight: Utilize knowledge of company structure, workflows, and operational systems to support decision-making.
Technology Utilization: Leverage awareness of technology trends and industry best practices to resolve problems effectively.
Workflow Analysis: Analyze recurring workflow failures using data-driven methods to identify root causes.
Process Recommendations: Recommend design or procedural changes that improve process flow and reduce bottlenecks.
Procedure Development: Develop and implement new procedures for generating operational and analytical reports.
Trend Evaluation: Identify and evaluate emerging trends that influence information management and reporting accuracy.
Reporting Standards: Define standards for report creation, maintenance, and distribution to ensure consistency.
Automation Development: Write complex queries and macros to automate report generation and improve efficiency.
Template Creation: Create templates to standardize report formatting and guide others in proper report creation.
Performance Metrics: Establish performance indicators for individuals, teams, and departments to monitor effectiveness.
Measurement Design: Design measurement systems and conduct evaluations to drive performance improvement and accountability.

13. Inventory Supervisor Essential Functions

Inventory Verification: Conduct investigations and alignment counts to verify inventory accuracy.
Findings Communication: Communicate all findings clearly to relevant teams for transparency and corrective action.
Variance Analysis: Identify and analyze shortages or overages to ensure timely resolution.
Corrective Action: Implement corrective measures to prevent recurrence of identified discrepancies.
Count Coordination: Coordinate and complete regular inventory counts according to customer requirements.
Audit Documentation: Document results from all cycles and alignment counts for audit readiness.
Root Cause Analysis: Collaborate with other departments to determine the root causes of stock variances.
Process Improvement: Recommend process improvements to strengthen inventory control and accuracy.
Project Execution: Execute additional assignments or special projects as directed by management.
Standards Compliance: Maintain compliance with company and customer standards throughout all inventory activities.

14. Inventory Supervisor Role Purpose

Warehouse Optimization: Responsible for optimizing the warehousing and inventory management.
Improvement Leadership: Identify and lead opportunities for improvement in service and cost.
Policy Compliance: Responsible for ensuring that all warehouse locations are kept current and are in adherence to all company policies and procedures related to the handling of product.
KPI Management: Establish, report, and manage key performance indicators for warehouse capacity utilization, inventory management, and service levels, and hold monthly reviews.
Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement in these KPIs.
Strategy Development: Work with all layers of management to develop, document, and execute a comprehensive inventory management strategy that will drive optimal customer service and profitability.
Customer Service Excellence: Work with cross-functional teams within the company to drive customer service excellence.
Inventory Analysis: Work with Sales, Manufacturing, and Procurement teams to analyze inventory profiles to optimize On Time-In-Full order fulfillment.
Operational Liaison: Serve as liaison to manufacturing warehouse operations as well as other logistical service providers to maximize service at minimum cost.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all regulatory and compliance measures are met within company guidelines.
Project Management: Ensure that Supply Chain projects are completed on time and within budget.

15. Inventory Supervisor General Responsibilities

Inventory Control: Create and maintain efficient and accurate inventory control best practices in alignment with company policies, SOPs, work instructions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Cycle Count Management: Develop and maintain an effective cycle count strategy to ensure the timely and accurate execution of inventory checks.
Discrepancy Resolution: Perform system adjustments and analyze count results to implement permanent corrective actions and reconcile inventory discrepancies.
Performance Monitoring: Monitor the performance of all inventory control personnel to ensure goals are met and identify opportunities for improvement.
Team Leadership: Foster a strong team culture through clear communication, motivation, and effective leadership.
Data Analysis: Capture and analyze data related to high, low, and stagnant productivity levels, identifying root causes and recommending solutions.
Transaction Verification: Monitor and verify the accuracy of all inventory transactions, ensuring proper recordkeeping for bin locations and maintaining system data integrity.
Safety Compliance: Ensure all operations are conducted safely and in full compliance with OSHA standards and company safety protocols.

16. Inventory Supervisor Key Accountabilities

Inventory Oversight: Oversee daily activities related to the ordering, receiving, and distribution of all medications and supplies.
Liaison Support: Serve as liaison between the Manager, Pharmacy Inventory, and the pharmacy areas or nursing stations to assist in the appropriate and timely delivery of items.
Compliance Management: Maintain activities associated with ensuring compliance and appropriate inventory control.
Policy Enforcement: Perform routine visits to patient care and pharmacy areas to ensure compliance with controlled substance policies and procedures.
Operations Supervision: Assist in the oversight of operations for the Pharmacy Automated Dispensing Machines.
Stock Maintenance: Ensure adequate par levels of medications are maintained in the ADMs as documented through Par vs. Usage reports and as evidenced by the lack of inventory complaints from nursing and pharmacy areas.
Checklist Management: Complete and document Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Activity Checklists, including expired drug checking, cleaning assignments, and ordering supplies and forms.
Training Participation: Participate in the education and training of pharmacy students and new employees as documented on the objectives and competencies form.
Communication Monitoring: Check all available means of communication, including e-mail and the mailbox, every shift.

17. Inventory Supervisor Roles and Details

Inventory Management: Be directly responsible for managing all aspects of the cycle count, replenishment processes, customer buyback, and inventory control audit counts.
Performance Measurement: Measure operational performance and manage workforce efficiency while working independently with a high level of integrity.
Cultural Alignment: Ensure that the BDA way is fully understood, practiced, and internalized by all employees.
Performance Standards: Maintain high expectations of performance standards for all staff members.
Employee Motivation: Motivate employees to achieve their best performance and maintain team morale.
Training Development: Provide excellent training resources and continuous learning opportunities for staff development.
Staffing Management: Maintain adequate staffing levels to ensure smooth and efficient operations across all areas.
Communication Coordination: Ensure clear communication and effective coordination between all materials and logistics personnel.
Process Streamlining: Streamline processes to create greater efficiency and ease of operation.
Workplace Safety: Provide a safe and compliant work environment for all BD&A employees.
Team Collaboration: Collaborate and interact with BD&A teams, offering input and support.
Process Development: Develop, review, and identify new processes to support evolving warehouse and company operational needs.

18. Inventory Supervisor Responsibilities and Key Tasks

Maintenance Execution: Perform Autonomous Maintenance (AM) Step 4 and Progressive Maintenance (PM) Step 3 system activities to sustain operational excellence.
Equipment Maintenance: Maintain equipment at basic conditions independently by executing AM and PM standards, including both breakdown and planned maintenance tasks.
Continuous Improvement: Apply Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Six Sigma principles while progressing through AM Steps 5–6 and PM Step 3 qualifications.
Team Leadership: Lead and motivate line teams to achieve production and maintenance objectives effectively.
Interpersonal Management: Handle challenging interpersonal situations tactfully and maintain professionalism in all interactions.
Union Collaboration: Influence and collaborate with personnel in a unionized environment to promote teamwork and adherence to operational standards.
Effective Communication: Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, demonstrating strong attention to detail in documentation and reporting.
Inventory Best Practices: Establish and implement best practice inventory measures, including systematic tracking, reporting, and root cause analysis.
Inventory Management: Develop and maintain efficient, accurate inventory management procedures to optimize material flow and equipment reliability.

19. Inventory Supervisor Duties and Roles

Inventory Support: Support inventory management processes, including cycle counting, MDR processing, warehouse slotting optimization, and pick-path optimization.
Performance Reporting: Establish key performance metrics and generate reports to highlight cycle count accuracy and performance levels.
Leadership Development: Demonstrate role-model leadership by driving continuous improvement initiatives through Lean best practices in warehousing, material flow, and logistics.
Operational Monitoring: Utilize Leader Standard Work to monitor operational performance, efficiency, and effectiveness.
Issue Escalation: Serve as a point of escalation for customer, supplier, and manufacturing inventory-related issues.
Resource Management: Balance labor resources to ensure optimal team performance and overall operational success.
Labor Forecasting: Contribute to labor resource forecasting efforts under the guidance of the Distribution Senior Manager.
Continuous Improvement: Support and participate in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing service level performance.
SOP Maintenance: Review, update, and maintain SOPs to ensure consistency, reliability, and compliance with all regulations and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).
Safety Compliance: Participate in safety walkthroughs and support continuous improvement activities to maintain a safe and efficient working environment.
Accuracy Achievement: Contribute to achieving annual inventory accuracy targets across raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods categories.

20. Inventory Supervisor Roles and Responsibilities

Cycle Count Management: Oversee the daily cycle count process and generate plans to meet minimum location count requirements as defined by outside auditors and internal facility KPIs.
Product Review: Ensure the new product review process is completed within 24 hours or less to maintain accuracy and timeliness.
Visual Management: Maintain the Daily SAAG Board and all other visual management tools to support operational transparency.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with the Sales and Sales Support teams to address and resolve customer service-related issues.
Performance Monitoring: Monitor employee productivity and accuracy rates daily to ensure performance standards are consistently met.
Corrective Action: Implement corrective action plans promptly when operational or performance goals are not achieved.
SKU Analysis: Analyze weekly and monthly SKU velocity to determine proper direct pick slot sizing and make adjustments.
Slot Optimization: Assign new item slots based on product size and SKU forecasts to optimize space utilization.
6S Compliance: Ensure the department and work areas are fully compliant with 6S organizational standards.
SOP Management: Keep all SOPs current and verify that employees are trained accordingly.
Equipment Tracking: Track all scanners in and out daily to ensure accountability and proper equipment usage.
Continuous Improvement: Lead, support, and actively participate in all Lean Kaizen activities to drive continuous improvement and efficiency.

21. Inventory Supervisor Overview

Material Coordination: Coordinate all aspects of material flow, picking, and part delivery within the organization.
Logistics Strategy: Create, maintain, and execute material logistics strategies to manage inventory and support the Head of Supply Chain and MRP managers in controlling excess and obsolete materials.
System Expertise: Serve as the subject matter expert for inventory modules within the organization’s business system.
Relationship Building: Foster, develop, and maintain strong, positive working relationships with leadership and all employees.
Fulfillment Modeling: Collaborate with the Head of Supply Chain to develop suitable material fulfillment models, such as VMI and KANBAN.
Cycle Counting: Implement routine cycle counting on key materials to ensure greater stock accuracy.
Inventory Planning: Work proactively with MRP and planning controllers to maintain inventory and replenishment levels that meet customer on-time delivery (COTD) and market expected lead times (MELT).
System Coordination: Coordinate with IT to ensure full utilization of the dynamic warehousing module.
Stock Management: Ensure FIFO, FEFO, and other appropriate stocking principles are implemented and maintained.
Order Fulfillment: Oversee the picking and packing of aftermarket sales orders to ensure materials are available and processed on time.
Stocktake Leadership: Assist in the preparation and lead the execution of the annual stocktake process.
Team Development: Coach, lead, and develop team members to ensure key metrics, organizational goals, and objectives are achieved.

22. Inventory Supervisor Job Description

Material Analysis: Analyze material requirements per MPO and review BOM consumption for accuracy and completeness.
Supervisory Support: Serve as backup for the senior supervisor overseeing raw materials operations.
Order Review: Examine raw material transfer orders and purchase orders for each MPO to ensure all materials are properly shipped and received.
Inventory Direction: Direct the inventory control team to receive open transfer orders, close purchase orders, and perform necessary transactions to correct inventory imbalances.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with raw material inventory, supply chain, and quality assurance teams to resolve MPOs delayed by missing materials.
System Operations: Run MPO estimation and reservation in D365 following established procedures, or unreserve backordered items for system inventory sweeps and physical validation.
Reporting Support: Provide the inventory control team with MPO reservation reports for each factory to support planning accuracy.
Order Execution: Execute and process MPOs in D365 by releasing orders, verifying material availability, and initiating production.
Consumption Validation: Validate material consumption with the product development engineering (PDE) team and track raw material movements.
Reconciliation Reporting: Prepare detailed reports on material overages, shortages, and inventory reconciliation.

23. Inventory Supervisor Functions

Discrepancy Analysis: Analyze sweep results and BOM discrepancies, informing relevant departments of changes and their potential production impact.
Corrective Coordination: Coordinate with teams to determine corrective actions and prevent recurrence of BOM-related issues.
Record Maintenance: Maintain records for downstream traceability and compliance with audit requirements.
Meeting Participation: Participate in weekly CMT status meetings to review production progress and address challenges.
Material Coordination: Follow up with supply chain and logistics teams to ensure material availability aligns with production schedules.
MPO Monitoring: Monitor MPO execution and identify deviations for timely corrective action.
Request Approval: Review and approve raw material requests for contractors and in-house factories.
Procedure Development: Develop and document standard procedures to enhance workflow efficiency.
Root Cause Analysis: Evaluate D365 BOM and PLM/manual process issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement long-term solutions.
Transaction Validation: Maintain and validate finished goods packing slips and D365 receiving transactions to ensure compliance with internal control audit standards.

24. Inventory Supervisor Accountabilities

System Testing: Prepare, execute, and manage testing and defect tracking in the ALM system to ensure system reliability and operational accuracy.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain seamless process flow and effective communication between WMS and SAP systems.
Training Delivery: Provide system and process training to outsourced teams to ensure consistent operations and compliance with standards.
Inventory Control: Control digital distribution center (DC) inventory from both system and physical perspectives, ensuring full alignment between WMS and SAP data.
Transaction Monitoring: Monitor all inventory transactions between WMS and SAP, identify root causes of discrepancies, and resolve abnormalities promptly.
Launch Support: Support digital launch operations by coordinating inventory management activities and ensuring readiness for new product introductions.
Quality Monitoring: Monitor inventory and quality control status in alignment with product launch timelines.
Inventory Coordination: Coordinate with launch and cross-functional teams to ensure sufficient inventory availability for campaigns.
Safety Compliance: Implement and verify high-priority product safety inventory settings to maintain consistency between system and WMS data.
Sample Tracking: Track digital sample deliveries and GWP (gift-with-purchase) processes to meet business objectives.
Operational Optimization: Monitor overall digital inventory status and track storage utilization to optimize operational efficiency.

25. Inventory Supervisor Job Summary

Inventory Coordination: Coordinate with cross-functional teams to organize operational counts and uphold inventory accuracy.
Quality Collaboration: Collaborate with brand integrity and DC teams to complete quality control and rework activities.
Issue Resolution: Work with MPO and DC operations teams to resolve consumer quality-related issues efficiently.
Reporting Analysis: Prepare detailed inventory tracking reports with analytical insights to support internal business needs.
Report Development: Develop new and customized inventory reports to address emerging business requirements.
Inventory Maintenance: Coordinate with launch and cross-functional teams to maintain a healthy and balanced inventory structure.
Defective Product Management: Conduct regular liquidation of defective products to preserve inventory health.
3PL Performance Management: Manage 3PL inventory performance according to KPI targets and enforce governance standards.
Audit Execution: Establish and execute regular audits to ensure 3PL operations comply with governance expectations.
Compliance Oversight: Maintain a thorough understanding of DC processes and company policies to ensure operational compliance.
Partner Relations: Foster strong working relationships with external partners and conduct on-site monitoring of DC operations.

26. Inventory Supervisor Responsibilities

Cycle Count Management: Create cycle count documents, ensuring randomization of bin selection within approved corporate guidelines.
Counting Oversight: Plan and monitor physical counting activities performed by the Operations Team.
Recount Supervision: Monitor recount activities for completion by the Inventory Team.
Discrepancy Documentation: Maintain detailed documentation of all inventory discrepancies.
Data Analysis: Analyze inventory discrepancy data using SAP DIFF_Analyzer and Analytics Cloud, applying pivot and throughput calculations to measure against value and quantity goals.
Goal Communication: Communicate inventory value and quantity goals to the AVP and Finance partners.
System Coordination: Post differences in DIFF_Analyzer according to the RDC schedule in coordination with the IT department.
Issue Response: Monitor and respond to discrepancies communicated via email from business partners and Maisons.
Trend Identification: Identify trends and recurring inventory discrepancies such as mis shipments and quality issues.
Corrective Action Planning: Develop metrics, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions to address discrepancies.
Process Compliance: Ensure the team adheres to established inventory processes, schedules, and assigned responsibilities.

27. Inventory Supervisor Details

Policy Compliance: Ensure compliance of all team members with corporate, DC, and departmental policies and procedures.
Performance Management: Address performance, attendance, and behavior issues promptly through coaching, documentation, and corrective actions.
Team Leadership: Provide leadership, guidance, direction, and professional development to direct reports.
Initiative Execution: Execute company initiatives and strategies to uphold warehouse and delivery excellence standards.
Performance Evaluation: Conduct annual performance evaluations for all associates.
Inquiry Management: Ensure all responses to inquiries are timely, accurate, and professional.
Operational Knowledge: Maintain a thorough understanding of overall DC functions to assist in research across vendors, inbound, claims, outbound shipping points, credit returns, boutique/wholesale processing, exports, and partner facilities such as RTC, CAD1, USS1, and Shelton.
Audit Coordination: Coordinate with PWC and internal auditors during onsite audits or observations of the cycle count program and provide necessary documentation.
System Improvement: Participate in system health checks and continuous improvement initiatives.
SOP Maintenance: Update departmental standard operating procedures regularly.
Safety Enforcement: Enforce workplace safety by ensuring adherence to PPE use, housekeeping, and proper equipment handling.
Incident Compliance: Maintain strict compliance with the company’s safety incident reporting process.

28. Inventory Supervisor Duties

Operational Enforcement: Enforce operational procedures for activities such as verification of incoming and outgoing shipments, handling and disposition of materials, and maintaining current warehouse inventory.
Facility Inspection: Inspect the physical condition of the warehouse and equipment regularly.
Repair Coordination: Coordinate repairs for equipment with outside vendors and/or forklift mechanics.
Operational Oversight: Oversee warehouse operations in the absence of the Warehouse Manager.
Cost Reporting: Report high-cost repairs to the department manager for approval and tracking.
Cross-Functional Coordination: Work with production supervisors to ensure coordination of warehouse activities with production, sales, records control, and purchasing functions.
Issue Escalation: Report higher-level operational or compliance issues to management promptly.
Inventory Oversight: Oversee receiving and cycle count activities to maintain accurate inventory.
Employee Training: Train all new warehouse employees and re-evaluate training needs based on individual performance.
Staffing Coordination: Coordinate staffing requirements to cover attendance shortages and operational demands.
Material Salvage: Direct the salvage of damaged or used material to minimize waste.
Inventory Reconciliation: Perform month-end inventory and cycle counts to ensure physical inventories reconcile with system records.
System Administration: Act as SuperUser (Advanced team member) for the Warehouse WMS system.
Housekeeping Maintenance: Ensure maintenance of a clean, orderly, and safe warehouse environment.
Safety Participation: Participate in planning and implementing personnel safety and plant protection activities.

29. Inventory Supervisor Details and Accountabilities

Team Management: Manage a team responsible for the daily execution of processing receipts, production, and shipment data in the corporate ERP system.
Performance Evaluation: Conduct annual employee reviews, regular skills assessments, and workload analyses to ensure balanced team performance.
Workload Balancing: Level employee workloads effectively, accounting for time off and fluctuations in production volume.
System Auditing: Regularly audit Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision) to ensure data accuracy and process compliance.
Staff Training: Train inventory staff in new procedures and functions while motivating them to perform at a high level.
Data Oversight: Oversee production and shipping procedures in Navision to ensure quantities and data are entered correctly.
SOP Development: Collaborate with the quality auditor to develop and streamline standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to the inventory department.
Data Accuracy: Maintain responsibility for the accuracy of all data related to receiving, production, and shipping.
Client Communication: Communicate with clients to address issues requiring resolution and implement corrective actions accordingly.
Report Management: Ensure all inventory, production, shipping, and receiving reports are generated and distributed accurately and on time, including reports such as inventory aging, FIFO, pallet counts, and finished goods not shipped.
Inventory Reconciliation: Verify that all inventories are reconciled after job completion and ensure clients receive the appropriate reports.
Physical Inventory Management: Manage and execute physical inventories in compliance with established SOPs.
Discrepancy Analysis: Utilize system tools and data analysis to identify inventory discrepancies, determine root causes, and implement corrective actions.
Performance Oversight: Oversee the overall performance of the inventory team in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and timely task completion.
Safety Compliance: Ensure adherence to safety regulations, company GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and quality standards in all work activities.

30. Inventory Supervisor Tasks

Material Flow Management: Monitor and direct the movement of raw materials and finished goods throughout company operations.
Logistics Coordination: Direct company logistics to ensure efficient and timely shipping to customers.
Production Collaboration: Collaborate with Production Management to coordinate the movement of raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), outsourced, and subcontracted goods between vendors and company facilities using company trucks and vans.
Discrepancy Resolution: Resolve discrepancies between shipping, finance, and client management by verifying packing slips against invoices.
Cost Efficiency: Ensure operations run in a cost-efficient manner to position SPRI as a profit center within the organization.
Warehousing Support: Assist Operations Management in making warehousing decisions and exploring alternatives such as bulk raw material purchases, batch production runs, and advanced finished goods storage strategies.
Space Optimization: Optimize warehouse space utilization through effective planning of square footage and rack configurations.
Client Collaboration: Collaborate with Client Management, including sales, estimating, and project management teams, to ensure transportation and storage costs are accurately reflected in contract pricing and terms.
Process Improvement: Work with the Inventory Lead and other team members to implement packing lists and processes that enhance packaging, tracking, storage, shipment, and billing efficiency for WIP and finished goods.
Documentation Accuracy: Create and update packing lists to maintain accurate documentation and traceability.
Material Receiving: Ensure all incoming materials are properly received into SAGE and stored efficiently for easy retrieval.
Inventory Accuracy: Work with the Inventory Lead to ensure all inventory items issued to production are accurately captured in SAGE.
Problem Solving: Facilitate problem-solving between Receiving, Inventory, and Purchasing departments regarding quantity discrepancies, item availability, returns to vendors, and shipment refusals.
Operational Insight: Support warehousing decision-making by providing operational insights on storage methods, procurement strategies, and space optimization.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain accurate finished goods inventory and streamline the overall material flow process.

Relevant Information

What Does An Inventory Manager Do?

What Does An Inventory Associate Do?

What Does An Inventory Analyst Do?

What Does An Inventory Lead Do?