Inventory Specialist

Job Summary     The   Inventory Specialist   will   be responsible for   optimizing inventory levels at each node of the network and ensuring product is moving to the right location at the right time, with the right volume .    The Inventory Specialist manages the core business categories on each team and partners with the Inventory Analyst & Inventory Manager on more complex businesses or initiatives .         What will you do?         Core Execution     Place purchase orders from vendors to AAP Distribution Centers to   maintain   adequate inventory to support AAP Company Owned stores and hundreds of Independently operated stores    Ensure that proper inventory levels are   maintained   by consistently reviewing KPIs such as weeks of supply and depth in-stock metrics    Track vendor   PO’s   from order point to DC to ensure vendors are shipping on time and in full    Root cause supplier issues to   maintain   acceptable performance    Monitor product flow throughout the supply chain to create an excellent customer experience    Participate in Lifecycle Management review process;   determine   path forward for slow moving product and obsolete inventory     Monitor inventory-turn performance and   identify   opportunities to   optimize   inventory levels    Root cause analysis and troubleshooting when stores or DCs are out of stock     Collaboration/Partnership     Manage vendor-facing relationship to ensure expectations are defined and achieved    Partner with Senior Inventory Planner as necessary on high-visibility categories or initiatives    Collaborate as part of a cohesive team environment with immediate team and cross-functional partners alike    Business Analysis/Insights     Review KPIs and reporting against targets to provide visibility to partners and leadership. Work with key partners to measure progress against targets    Ability to gather pieces of data from well-defined sources to answer questions about their business    With the help of the Senior Inventory Planner, work with   large amounts   of data and create reports for Senior Management team    Conduct ad hoc analysis to understand business opportunities     Communication     Effectively communicate with cross functional teams     Demonstrate consistent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills to   identify   problems    Proactively communicate and resolve all issues   regarding   product flow from Vendor to DC to Store and resolve potential service disruptions      Location & Work Availability:       This position is Hybrid (4 days in office, 1 day remote), based at our corporate headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina .

Proficiency   with Excel and basic analytical skills   required , with   fundamental   understanding of retail math and inventory management. Must be able to   demonstrate   familiarity in these areas to be considered for this position.    Experience & familiarity in inventory management systems and Software (in Blue Yonder, Relex or Manhattan Associates, or SAP)     Self-motivated,   passionate   and enthusiastic individual ready to bring energy and excitement to lead their business     Demonstrated organizational skills with a natural curiosity and interest in problem solving     Flexible team player who thrives in environments requiring ability to effectively prioritize workload     Strong sense   of urgency and willingness to provide feedback on potential process improvements    Curiosity to ask “why” behind the data and dig into the root cause opportunities.        Certifications, Experience, and Education:      Minimum of 0-2 years of experience in a planning and/or inventory management field; and    Bachelor’s degree in Business , Finance, Supply Chain, or   other   related field; or    Equivalent combination of education and/or experience