Inventory and Risk Manager - FMCGA new and exciting opportunity opened up for an Inventory and Risk Manager to join our Sales Team in Gauteng.The purpose of the job for the ideal candidate will be:To play a crucial role in managing and optimising overall Company stock inventory processes and planning for all manufacturing units.To take full responsibility for reducing overall stock returns in the retail operations network, to 2%.Overseeing the efficient handling of product returns, ensuring customer satisfaction, implementing strategies to minimise returns, constant engagement with the internal sales team and other departments within the Company.QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field (preferred)Experience:4-6 years proven experience in a similar role, preferably in a manufacturing or retail environment.SKILLS:Excellent organisational and communication skills.Attention to detail.Collaborate effectively internally and with cross-functional teams.Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.KNOWLEDGE:Strong understanding of returns management processes and best practices.Strong understanding of inventory management processes.KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS:Stock OptimisationCustomer Communication and ResolutionData Analysis and ReportingSupplier and Vendor ManagementReturns Process ManagementDevelop and implement efficient processes for analysing, controlling and reporting on all returns/waste nationally. Ensure close collaboration with The SRC Luminate team and Clover/Vector to implement strategies to control waste and returns by region and store. Coordinate with various departments, including customer service, sales agents, and quality control to streamline the returns processes and resolve issues promptly.Maintain accurate records of returned items, reasons for return, and strategies by region and banner. Conduct thorough inspections of returned products to determine their condition and identify any defects or damages in collaboration with Clover and Vector. Develop and implement a returns management process in collaboration with Clover/Vector and SRC/Luminate to ensure sign off on store returns.Collaborate with the quality control team and Clover/Vector sales team to assess the root causes of returns and implement corrective actions to prevent the recurrence. Develop a robust plan to optimize the correct stock holding in all direct and indirect Distribution Centres nationally. Manage weekly forecasting with relevant parties. Manage and resolve all near dated stock items with the sales teams.Serve as the primary point of contact for authorising returned products, determine their condition, and identify any defects or damages. Communicate return policies and procedures clearly and effectively to consumers, helping and guiding them as needed. Set up weekly communication sessions to discuss and manage all returns/waste related problems and implement fixes.Work closely with customer service representatives to address customer concerns and facilitate the resolution of return-related issues in a timely manner. Analyse return trends and patterns to identify areas for implementation and opportunities to reduce return rates. Optimize all SKU stock levels in all customer outlets and Distribution Centres.Generate regular reports on return metrics, including return rates, reasons for return and disposition outcomes. Use data-driven insights to recommend strategies for minimising returns and improving overall customer satisfaction. Implement strategies to minimise waste/returns with all vendors and track progress daily.Collaborate with customers and vendors to address product quality issues and facilitate the return of defective or non-conforming items. Negotiate return agreements and terms with suppliers to ensure favourable outcomes for the Company. Monitor supplier performance and adherence to return KPI's, taking corrective action as necessary.
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