Inventory Planning Analyst II

Benefits Fuel Your Growth with Love's - company funded tuition assistance Paid Time Off 401(k) – 100% Match up to 5% Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance after 30 days Competitive Pay Career Development Position Overview The Inventory Planning Analyst II is responsible for supporting advanced inventory optimization initiatives through enhanced analytics, forecasting, and replenishment processes. This role contributes to improving inventory performance metrics, refining reporting systems, and addressing more complex challenges in collaboration with merchandising and operational teams. This position also focuses on strengthening relationships with internal support teams, category management, suppliers, and manufacturers, to ensure smooth operations and effective communication. Job Functions Inventory Management Implement and recommend enhancements to Love’s inventory strategy and replenishment processes Collaborate with cross functional partners to refine inventory initiatives Analyze and implement Love's inventory strategy and replenishment processes to improve inventory performance, meet in‑stock percentage goals, optimize inventory turnover and mitigate aging inventory Implement tailored inventory strategies based on category, seasonality, promotions, and both domestic and international suppliers in accordance with the financial plan & business objectives Coordinate special programs, large buys, and end of month/quarter deals to recommend potential purchasing incentives Optimize all aspects of the purchase order and inventory replenishment process to include forecasting, generating purchase orders, vendor communication, monitoring shipping timelines, confirming delivery, and approving invoices Collaborate with inbound logistic partners to coordinate deliveries Enhance strategic vendor partnerships by collaborating with vendors to leverage forecast and implement inventory strategies Analysis/Business Acumen Optimize predictive modeling, machine learning, and other analytical tools to deliver data-driven insights that support strategic decision‑making Enhance reporting and analysis tools via business intelligence platforms to analyze sales, purchasing, and inventory patterns Develop analytical reporting to improve supply chain processes Utilize analytics and business knowledge to create cost‑effective purchase orders, achieving required goals and relevant KPIs Supply Chain Technology Analyze and optimize process flows, identify gaps, and implement improvements to efficiency standards Provide testing and recommendations on new technology enhancements to Love's inventory and replenishment platforms & tools Leverage technology to effectively execute business strategies and objectives Other duties as assigned Experience & Qualifications BA degree or higher in Supply Chain Management or other business-related field and/or 2-5 years relevant work experience In‑depth, hands‑on knowledge of retail merchandising systems Knowledge of industry trends, “best practices” and Six Sigma process improvements are preferred Proven experience with troubleshooting principles, methodologies, and issue resolution techniques Knowledge and usage of Blue Yonder, Tableau and/or SQL preferred Skills and Physical Demands Highly motivated self‑starter Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal skills Must thrive in fast‑paced environment Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Products, specifically Excel Love's is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans encouraged to apply. EOE-Protected Veterans/Disability #J-18808-Ljbffr Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores