Global Supply Chain Analyst

Global Supply Chain Analyst

The Supply Chain Analyst is responsible for executing the purchasing of finished goods and component materials from global manufacturers and suppliers to meet organizational requirements. This role manages supplier relationships, optimizes inventory levels, and ensures product availability to fulfill customer demands while balancing cost and service levels across the global supply chain.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Execute global purchasing: Purchase finished goods and component materials from global manufacturers and suppliers based on organizational requirements and demand forecasts.
• Negotiate & manage purchase orders: Negotiate with suppliers on purchase order status, expediting, deferring, or canceling orders as necessary to maintain proper inventory levels and fulfill customer demands.
• Production scheduling coordination: Provide direction to global manufacturers and suppliers regarding required dates and quantities for production scheduling to meet customer demand.

Additional duties include:

• Inventory analysis & decision-making: Generate and analyze inventory reports; make data-driven decisions to optimize inventory levels based on cost efficiency and service level requirements.
• Product transfer & buying decisions: Make strategic decisions on purchasing or transferring product based on knowledge of product performance, supplier capabilities, and market conditions.
• Issue identification & escalation: Identify severe inventory shortages or capacity constraints that could adversely affect customer satisfaction; communicate issues to management and recommend solutions.

Supply chain planning & strategy:

• Supply chain reliability evaluation: Evaluate the reliability of supply chain flow to ensure product availability; make recommendations for vendor warehousing strategies and align supplier capacity with demand forecasting.
• Business planning contribution: Contribute to the planning of long- and short-term business objectives by providing supply chain insights and analysis.
• Process measurement & analysis: Chart, analyze, and interpret key process measures to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities.

Supplier relationship management:

• Supplier training & support: Train suppliers on the Company's supplier websites and systems; ensure understanding of key elements and provide ongoing support as needed.
• Professional supplier representation: Positively and professionally represent Ashley to suppliers, communicating company needs and gathering critical information regarding production schedules and capabilities.
• Relationship building: Initiate, build, and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external customers, especially those impacting Supply Chain function effectiveness.

Core values:

• Demonstrate core values: Exemplify Ashley's Core and Growth Values in the performance of all job functions, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, Operations Management, or related field required
• Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of degree
• 2+ years of experience in supply chain planning, procurement, inventory management, or related field required
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to interpret data and make sound business decisions
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, data analysis)
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and supply chain management software
• Knowledge of inventory optimization, demand planning, and procurement processes
• Excellent negotiation and supplier relationship management skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Understanding of global supply chain dynamics and international supplier coordination
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management abilities

Preferred qualifications:

• APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP) or similar supply chain certification preferred
• Experience working with global manufacturers and overseas suppliers
• Familiarity with supplier portals and procurement systems
• Knowledge of logistics, transportation, and warehousing operations
• Experience in furniture manufacturing or similar industries a plus

Work environment:

This position operates in a professional office environment with regular use of computers, phones, and standard office equipment. The role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams and frequent communication with global suppliers across different time zones. Occasional travel may be required to visit supplier facilities or attend business meetings.

Benefits we offer:

• Health, Dental, Vision, and Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off; increases with years of service
• Generous Employee Discount on home furnishings
• Professional Development Opportunities & Tuition Assistance
• Ashley Wellness Centers (location specific)
• 401(k) and Profit Sharing
• Life Insurance