Inventory Manager

Job Title: Inventory ManagerCompany: National Pride Equipment Carwash SuperstoreLocation: Mansfield, Ohio (with oversight of satellite locations as needed)Department: Warehouse and ProcurementReports to: Director of Warehouse and ProcurementDirect Reports: Warehouse Manager, Inventory Specialists, Delivery DriversJob SummaryCarwash Superstore is a leading distributor of car wash chemicals, replacement parts, janitorial supplies, and site maintenance products. We also manufacture custom car wash equipment and provide installation and ongoing service solutions. We are seeking a strategic and hands-on Inventory Manager to lead inventory operations across our warehouse, manufacturing facilities, service areas, and satellite locations.This role ensures high inventory accuracy, supports efficient material flow for distribution, production, and service, and drives lean improvements to reduce waste and costs. The Inventory Manager will supervise a dedicated team, implement best practices like Kanban for manufacturing cells, collaborate on targeted VMI setups, and prioritize safety, sustainability, and customer-focused fulfillment in a dynamic, multi-product environment.Key ResponsibilitiesOversee daily inventory management and control across all locations, including the main warehouse, manufacturing cells, service parts areas, and satellite sites, for chemicals, replacement parts, janitorial supplies, site supplies, and manufactured components.Lead, supervise, and develop direct reports (Warehouse Manager, Inventory Specialists, and Delivery Drivers), including hiring, training, performance evaluations, scheduling, and team motivation to foster a high-performing, safety-conscious culture.Plan and execute regular cycle counts, physical inventories, and audits to achieve and maintain >98% inventory accuracy; investigate variances, implement corrective actions, and resolve discrepancies efficiently.Develop and lead lean inventory improvement projects focused on optimizing picking, receiving, put-away, replenishment, and overall warehouse/manufacturing processes to eliminate waste, increase efficiency, and improve throughput.Design, implement, and maintain Kanban systems for manufacturing cells to enable just-in-time material replenishment, minimize excess inventory, and prevent production shortages for high-frequency parts and components.Collaborate closely with the purchasing team to establish and manage Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) programs specifically for hardware and other small, high-frequency-use parts in manufacturing, ensuring responsive replenishment without excess stock.Monitor inventory levels, turnover, slow-moving/obsolete items, and demand patterns; forecast needs in partnership with sales, manufacturing, and service teams to avoid stockouts or overstock while controlling carrying costs.Analyze inventory data and KPIs (e.g., turns, days on hand, accuracy rates) using ERP/inventory systems; prepare reports and recommendations for the Director of Warehouse and Procurement to support budgeting and cost-reduction goals.Safety & Compliance Focus: Oversee proper storage, labeling, handling, and documentation of hazardous materials (including car wash chemicals) in compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other relevant regulations; maintain up-to-date Safety Data Sheets (SDS), ensure compatible storage to prevent reactions, conduct safety audits, and train staff on hazardous material protocols.Sustainability Initiatives: Identify and implement practices to reduce packaging waste, minimize chemical overstock/spoilage, promote eco-friendly storage/replenishment methods, and track sustainability metrics to align with company environmental goals.Technology Integration: Evaluate, recommend, and support implementation of inventory technologies such as barcode/RFID scanning, automated replenishment alerts, warehouse management system (WMS) enhancements, or mobile tools to improve accuracy, visibility, and efficiency across operations.Customer Service Support: Coordinate urgent parts fulfillment for service technicians, rush orders for distribution customers, and kitting/preparation for service vans to ensure high customer satisfaction and minimize downtime for car wash sites.Partner with cross-functional teams (procurement, sales, manufacturing, service) on initiatives like new product launches, facility expansions, or fleet optimizations, ensuring inventory readiness and alignment.Drive continuous improvement through process mapping, root cause analysis of inventory issues, and adoption of industry best practices in distribution and manufacturing settings.Qualifications and SkillsBachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field (preferred); equivalent experience considered.5+ years of progressive inventory management experience in distribution, manufacturing, or industrial supply environments (experience with chemicals, parts, or equipment is highly desirable).Proven success implementing lean principles and Kanban systems in manufacturing or assembly settings.Strong leadership experience managing warehouse, inventory, and logistics teams.Proficiency with ERP/inventory management systems; advanced Excel or data analysis skills required. Familiarity or experience with RF Smart and NetSuite is a plus.Knowledge of inventory techniques including cycle counting, ABC analysis, FIFO for chemicals/perishables, and safety stock planning.Familiarity with hazardous materials regulations (OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, EPA requirements) and safe chemical handling practices.Excellent analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multi-location environment with multiple priorities.Certifications such as CPIM, CSCP, Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt, or hazardous materials handling training are a plus.Compensation and BenefitsSalary Range: $80,000 – $100,000 annually (based on experience and qualifications)Competitive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and opportunities for professional developmentWhat We OfferOpportunity to directly impact operational efficiency, safety, and growth in a thriving industrySupportive, collaborative team environment at a growing company in Mansfield, Ohio #J-18808-Ljbffr National Pride Equipment Car Wash Superstore