Inventory Specialist

Inventory SpecialistThe 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.Core ExecutionPlace purchase orders from vendors to AAP Distribution Centers to maintain adequate inventory to support AAP Company Owned stores and hundreds of Independently operated storesEnsure that proper inventory levels are maintained by consistently reviewing KPIs such as weeks of supply and depth in-stock metricsTrack vendor PO's from order point to DC to ensure vendors are shipping on time and in fullRoot cause supplier issues to maintain acceptable performanceMonitor product flow throughout the supply chain to create an excellent customer experienceParticipate in Lifecycle Management review process; determine path forward for slow moving product and obsolete inventoryMonitor inventory-turn performance and identify opportunities to optimize inventory levelsRoot cause analysis and troubleshooting when stores or DCs are out of stockCollaboration/PartnershipManage vendor-facing relationship to ensure expectations are defined and achievedPartner with Senior Inventory Planner as necessary on high-visibility categories or initiativesCollaborate as part of a cohesive team environment with immediate team and cross-functional partners alikeBusiness Analysis/InsightsReview KPIs and reporting against targets to provide visibility to partners and leadership. Work with key partners to measure progress against targetsAbility to gather pieces of data from well-defined sources to answer questions about their businessWith the help of the Senior Inventory Planner, work with large amounts of data and create reports for Senior Management teamConduct ad hoc analysis to understand business opportunitiesCommunicationEffectively communicate with cross functional teamsDemonstrate consistent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills to identify problemsProactively communicate and resolve all issues regarding product flow from Vendor to DC to Store and resolve potential service disruptionsLocation & Work Availability:This position is Hybrid (4 days in office, 1 day remote), based at our corporate headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina.QualificationsProficiency 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 businessDemonstrated organizational skills with a natural curiosity and interest in problem solvingFlexible team player who thrives in environments requiring ability to effectively prioritize workloadStrong sense of urgency and willingness to provide feedback on potential process improvementsCuriosity 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; andBachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or other related field; orEquivalent combination of education and/or experienceWe 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.