Inventory Analyst

Manage Foundational Instock: Utilize forecasting/planning/allocation tools to order product and ensure smooth flow to stores, warehouses and fulfillment centers Improve forecasting using exception management tools and reporting. Track, expedite and maintain open purchase orders Communicate vendor and product issues, accurately and timely, with the Merchandising team, Supply Chain, and other impacted groupsMinimize overstocks while maximizing sales and service levelsTeam with Product Manager and Planner to help maximize sales, service levels, inventory and turn and meet objectivesAds/Promotions: Maintain high levels of instock on weekly ads and seasonal promotions Execute timely placement of orders. Track and expedite to meet set-up timelines and service level goals Use allocation tool to properly identify appropriate historical information and quantities by location to ensure appropriate sell through and turnUtilize system plans in support of in season demand.Monitor event sales and take action to optimize sales and turn and reduce overstocksWork with Product Manager and Planner to proactively address Ad and Promo residualsProduct Transition Management: Work with the Merchandising team to successfully plan and execute a variety of product transitions including Planogram, New Catalog mailings, Seasonal buys, etc. Execute timely placement of orders. Track and expedite to meet set-up timelines and achieve service level goalsMinimize obsolescence and maximize turn through timely forecast updatesWork with Product Manager and Planner to establish sell down plansCommunicate and escalate issues to minimize impacts to Customer serviceSupply Chain/Vendor Relations: Partner with Merchandising and Supply Chain to assist in minimizing key supplier lead times to warehouses and fulfillment centers with improved reliability Develop and maintain positive and effective relations with vendors to facilitate timely and accurate processing of orders and delivered productMonitor Vendor performance using Staples Partners and AS400 Metrics reportsWork with vendors and Supply Chain to improve vendor reliability in meeting on time standards.Alert Merchandising team to vendor performance issuesDemonstrates understanding of total Supply Chain implications of Inventory Management decisions Qualifications Bachelor's DegreeStrong planning skills (unit & financial) and inventory management backgroundLeadership ability, management experience, and commitment to associate developmentAbility to support and execute multiple initiatives and projects in support of customer satisfactionTendency towards fact based decision-makingExperience with replenishment and planning software & systems - E3, Evant, MMS, Inforem, Arthur Apply