Inventory & Operational Forecasting Manager in Manufacturing

Inventory & Operational Forecasting ManagerThe Inventory & Operational Forecasting Manager within Manufacturing is responsible for developing and translating operational and inventory data into forward-looking insights that support business performance. This role will support analysis and reconciliation of forecasts across demand, supply, and inventory, connecting business strategy, execution, and financial outcomes.This position plays a critical role in identifying drivers of performance, diagnosing root causes of variances, and delivering clear, data-driven recommendations to support decision-making. The role operates in a cross-functional environment and influences outcomes through analysis, insight, and collaboration.ResponsibilitiesPartner with plant and planning teams to support and improve operational and inventory forecasting processesAnalyze and reconcile forecast inputs across demand, supply, and execution to identify gaps, misalignment, and improvement opportunitiesEvaluate forecast accuracy and performance, identifying root causes of variation and systemic driversAssess forecast assumptions, risks, and confidence levels, and clearly communicate implications to stakeholdersAnalyze large and complex datasets to evaluate operational and inventory performanceIdentify root causes of inventory imbalances, service issues, and execution gapsReconcile inconsistencies across systems, plans, and data sourcesTranslate analysis into clear, actionable recommendations with defined risks and tradeoffsProactively identify and communicate performance risks, constraints, and improvement opportunitiesSupport leadership decision-making by connecting operational performance to financial outcomesMonitor key inventory metrics, including days inventory on hand (DIO), excess and obsolete inventory, and supply-demand alignmentExplain drivers of inventory performance across sites, product segments, and planning assumptionsSupport inventory optimization initiatives and track results of corrective actionsPartner with demand planning, supply planning, materials, procurement, operations, and finance teamsFacilitate alignment across functions by providing a consistent, fact-based view of performanceSupport coordination and follow-through of planning and inventory-related initiativesRequirements & QualificationsRequired7+ years of experience in forecasting, inventory management, supply chain analytics, or related disciplinesStrong analytical skills with the ability to work with large, complex datasetsDemonstrated ability to translate data into insights and actionable recommendationsExperience operating in fast-paced environments with evolving or incomplete informationAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft ExcelExperience with ERP or planning systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar)Strong written and verbal communication skillsPreferredBachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, Engineering, or related fieldExperience in retail merchandise planning, demand forecasting, or inventory planningExperience reconciling data across multiple systems (forecasting, financial planning, and operational systems)Understanding of the relationship between sales, margin, supply chain, and inventory performanceExperience with reporting and visualization tools (e.g., Power BI or similar)CompetenciesStrong analytical and problem-solving capabilitiesAbility to operate effectively in ambiguous and rapidly changing environmentsSound judgment and ability to make recommendations based on incomplete informationAttention to detail with a focus on accuracy and data integrityAbility to collaborate and influence across cross-functional teamsWork EnvironmentThis role operates in a cross-functional, matrixed environment and requires collaboration across multiple business functions and levels of the organization.Travel Requirements: Up to 25%The successful candidate will embrace Vertiv's Core Principals & Behaviors to help execute our Strategic Priorities.Our Core Principles: Safety. Integrity. Respect. Teamwork. Diversity & Inclusion.Our Strategic PrioritiesCustomer FocusOperational ExcellenceHigh-Performance CultureInnovationFinancial StrengthOur BehaviorsOwn ItAct With UrgencyFoster a Customer-First MindsetThink Big and ExecuteLead by ExampleDrive Continuous ImprovementLearn and Seek Out DevelopmentPromote Transparent & Open CommunicationAt Vertiv, we're on a mission to empower the people that will power the future. From a simple swipe to life-changing medicines, from push notifications to generative AI. We design, manufacture, and service the products and solutions that keep the world connected. With $6.9 billion in revenue, a strong customer base and global reach spanning nearly 70 countries, we are uniquely positioned to deliver greater value to our customers and create new opportunities for our people.Vertiv is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We promote equal opportunities for all with respect to hiring, terms of employment, mobility, training, compensation, and occupational health, without discrimination as to age, race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity / expression (including transgender status or sexual stereotypes), genetic information, citizenship status, national origin, protected veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by sending an email to View email address on click.appcast.io. If you are interested in applying or learning more about this role, please visit the company's career page located on Vertiv.com/CareersWork AuthorizationNo calls or agencies please. Vertiv will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.