Inventory Planner

Job Summary The Inventory Planner is responsible for supporting the planning and management of pharmaceutical finished goods inventory to ensure product availability while maintaining optimal inventory levels. This role helps balance customer service objectives with inventory investment by monitoring inventory performance, identifying potential supply issues, and supporting actions to minimize backorders, excess inventory, and product obsolescence. Working closely with Manufacturing, Supply Planning, Distribution Centers, Customer Service, and other cross-functional teams, the Inventory Planner helps maintain efficient material flow throughout the supply chain. The position participates in the monthly Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process by preparing inventory data, monitoring key performance indicators, and assisting with inventory planning activities. This role uses data analysis and inventory management tools to support business decisions, improve inventory performance, and contribute to continuous process improvement. Onsite in Lake Zurich, IL 3 days per week. Salary Range $61,000 - $71,000 based on experience. Final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to experience level, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Our benefits and programs are comprehensive and thoughtfully crafted to ensure our colleagues live healthy lives and have support when it matters most. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with company contributions, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, employee assistance program, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Responsibilities Monitor pharmaceutical finished goods inventory to help maintain optimal inventory levels while supporting customer service, inventory investment, and business objectives. Analyze inventory positions across the distribution network and recommend inventory balancing actions to maximize inventory turns and minimize excess, obsolete, and short-dated inventory. Coordinate inventory transfers between distribution centers to support product availability and optimize network inventory levels. Monitor inventory approaching expiration and proactively coordinate actions to reduce product obsolescence, including redistribution, promotional opportunities, or other approved disposition strategies. Review blocked, restricted, and quarantined inventory and partner with Quality, Manufacturing, and Distribution teams to facilitate timely disposition and inventory release when appropriate. Monitor supply situations, identify potential shortages or excess inventory, and communicate risks and recommendations to internal stakeholders. Utilize inventory planning tools, ERP systems, and supply modeling to support inventory optimization and resolve low-stock or excess inventory situations. Participate in the monthly Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process by preparing inventory analyses, reviewing inventory performance, and supporting inventory planning decisions. Develop and maintain inventory reports, dashboards, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor inventory health and support management decision-making. Support SKU rationalization initiatives by creating reports, tracking project milestones, and coordinating inventory disposition activities. Assist with planning and execution of charitable donation opportunities or other approved inventory disposition programs for excess or obsolete inventory. Identify inventory exceptions and data discrepancies, investigate root causes, and coordinate corrective actions with cross-functional partners. Collaborate with Manufacturing, Distribution Centers, Customer Service, Quality, and Finance to improve inventory accuracy and material flow throughout the supply chain. Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to streamline inventory processes and improve inventory performance. Participate in special projects and other supply chain initiatives as assigned. Requirements Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States. Fresenius Kabi is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa either now or in the future. Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Logistics, or a related field required. Minimum 2 years of experience in supply chain, manufacturing, distribution, logistics, inventory management, or a related field preferred. Demonstrated understanding of supply chain fundamentals, inventory management principles, demand and supply planning processes, and inventory control practices. Ability to analyze inventory data, identify trends, and support recommendations related to inventory levels, material availability, and operational performance. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to investigate issues, perform root cause analysis, and support correc #J-18808-Ljbffr freseniusglobal