Strategic Inventory Planner (Hybrid)

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? Place purchase orders from vendors to AAP Distribution Centers to maintain adequate inventory for 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. Qualifications Proficiency with Excel and basic analytical skills required, with fundamental understanding of retail math and inventory management. 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. Benefits Summary We believe in supporting our Team Members and those they love through comprehensive health & wellness benefits. Learn more here: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class. We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr