Operations and Inventory Manager, South Coast Plaza opening

Renowned diamond jeweller Jessica McCormack designs exceptional jewellery for the modern woman, creating heirlooms for future generations. Artfully blending modernity and timelessness, her mission is to create jewellery that generations of women will wear and adore. Since launching in 2008, the brand has become known for effortlessly melding the traditional and the contemporary, combining Georgian techniques and expert craftsmanship with modern‑day design influences, eschewing trends for a unique, heirloom‑inspired aesthetic. Conscious of the demands placed on today’s modern woman, Jessica designs each piece to stand out, but also to work effortlessly within a client’s lifestyle and existing wardrobe.

ROLE OVERVIEW

As the Operations and Inventory Manager for our first USA West Coast store opening at South Coast Plaza, this role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a pivotal milestone in the brand’s growth. Joining at launch, the Store Operations and Inventory Manager plays a critical behind‑the‑scenes role in establishing seamless inventory management, operational efficiency, and production coordination processes across all business functions. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to collaborate with multiple departments to maintain stock accuracy and streamline operations. Acting as a key partner to the retail team, this position is instrumental in supporting the successful introduction and representation of Jessica McCormack at one of the world’s leading luxury retail destinations, helping set operational excellence standards from day one.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Inventory Management & Control Supervise and establish procedures to maintain inventory accuracy, minimize stock loss, and implement controls to protect business assets. Oversee and conduct regular stocktakes and cycle counts in the SCP Store, reconciling discrepancies and reporting findings to the Head of Operations in the UK Head Office. Ensure adherence to operations processes, reviewing and updating them as necessary. Maintain high standards of organization within all stock safes, in collaboration with the Retail team. Supervise all physical inventory movements, including transfers, tracking, and system reconciliation across the business. Assist with ad hoc requests such as PR loans, photoshoots, and marketing initiatives, ensuring proper stock tracking and returns. Oversee US company safe access, ensuring proper inventory security measures and compliance with transfer and recording protocols. Report to UK Head Office on negative stock discrepancies and oversee staff loan approvals, insurance limits, and reconciliation of business inventory limits. Stock Quality Control & Product Handling Oversee Quality Control (QC) and Repairs, ensuring all client‑owned and production stock is correctly processed, stored, and reviewed. Ensure that items such as client pieces, loans, and shoot samples are proactively inspected and quality controlled. Create best‑practice guidelines for jewelry handling and packaging, conducting training sessions for staff as needed. Monitor system inventory accuracy, ensuring exceptions are reported and resolved to maintain stock integrity. Liaise with production teams and local suppliers to track production timelines, repairs, and bespoke orders, ensuring alignment with sales objectives. Raise and manage purchase orders (POs) on Business Central (Microsoft ERP) for production, tracking costs against each item and ensuring accurate Bill of Materials (BOM) documentation. Production Coordination & Logistics Manage the movement of new stock, repairs, and bespoke orders between production sites, workshops, and the store. Work hand in hand with UK logistics specialists to ensure seamless product transport, accurate distribution, and compliance with customs regulations. Coordinate shipping, receiving, and documentation processes for all stock movements. Ensure timely delivery of goods, proactively monitoring production deadlines and addressing potential delays. Reporting & Compliance Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records of inventory transactions, stock movements, and reconciliations. Prepare and review KPI reports on stock accuracy, receipt timeliness, and stocktake performance. Coordinate with Finance and Operations teams in the UK for monthly reconciliations, including zero‑rated sales and inventory adjustments. Assist with customs inquiries and compliance, including VAT, duties, and HTS codes, ensuring adherence to importation regulations. File and manage Stock Incident Reports, escalating issues and reporting stock write‑offs for CFO review. Collaborate on year‑end audits and ensure all financial reporting requirements are met. Operational Support & Team Collaboration Provide back‑up support for UK Retail Operations, Inventory Control, and Logistics when required. Support and train team members on inventory management systems, operational workflows, and best practices. Act as a key liaison between production, retail, and operations, ensuring smooth communication and issue resolution. Support and cover for all Ecommerce and Customer care activities when not covered by the Inventory, Logistics and Customer Care Controller. Proactively identify inefficiencies in inventory and production workflows, recommending and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience 5-7 years of experience in inventory management, production coordination, or operations within luxury retail, fashion, jewelry, or manufacturing. Hands‑on experience with stock control, warehouse management, and quality assurance. Familiarity with ERP, WMS (Warehouse Management Systems), and inventory software (e.g., SAP, Business Central). Prior experience handling high‑value inventory and managing logistics across multiple locations is a plus. Strong understanding of import/export compliance, customs regulations, and international shipping procedures (especially for luxury goods). Inventory Control & Logistics: Ability to manage stock tracking, transfers, audits, and cycle counts while maintaining accuracy. Production Coordination: Experience managing product flow, repairs, and special orders (e.g., bespoke pieces or made‑to‑order goods). Quality Control: Understanding of QC processes, ensuring jewellery/apparel/accessory items meet luxury standards before retail distribution. Analytical & Reporting Skills: Ability to analyze inventory data, generate KPI reports, and resolve discrepancies. Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and inventory tracking software. Experience with barcode scanning and RFID technology is a plus. Communication & Teamwork: Strong ability to collaborate with retail teams, warehouse staff, finance, and production teams to ensure smooth operations. Problem‑Solving & Attention to Detail: Ability to troubleshoot discrepancies, streamline workflows, and implement process improvements. Time Management & Multitasking: Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, especially in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment. Knowledge of Compliance & Regulations: Understanding of TA (Temporary Admission), IPR (Inward Processing Relief), VAT, and duty regulations for international transactions. Leadership & Training: Ability to supervise teams, train staff on SOPs, and ensure compliance with company policies. Preferred Qualifications Experience in Luxury Retail, Fine Jewelry, or High‑End Fashion Knowledge of precious materials (e.g., gold, diamonds, gemstones) and how they are handled in inventory/production Experience working with high‑net‑worth clientele and custom orders Understanding of sustainability practices in production and inventory management #J-18808-Ljbffr Jessica McCormack