Inventory Manager

Overview:

The Goulet Pen Company is an ecommerce business operating in a highly passionate, niche industry. We are looking for an Inventory Manager to oversee the critical asset of our product inventory and lead the team that manages it. Because many of our suppliers are smaller companies, building and maintaining deep, collaborative relationships with our key vendors is essential to our success. You will manage a number of functional areas including purchasing and production and will work closely with multiple areas of the business including warehouse, accounting and marketing. Ultimately you will ensure that we have the right stock of the right products on our shelves and accurate records relating to those products. We are seeking a leader who views themselves as a partner and coach to their team members, collaborating with others to set direction and not afraid to get their hands dirty with the day-to-day work as needed.

Responsibilities:

People Management & Development

• Coach direct reports through conducting regular one-on-ones, facilitating development conversations, and fostering a positive, continuous-improvement culture.
• Ensure all Key Result Areas (KRAs) and performance standards are met through proper work assignment, clear communication, and facilitating team meetings.
• Partner with HR to perform development and pay reviews, assist with hiring, and manage administrative tasks (time-off, verifying hours).
• Maintain accurate job descriptions, up-to-date backup plans, and coordinate training for all new hires.

Inventory Control/Management

• Partner with the Director of Operations to set strategic direction and maintain sufficient inventory levels to support seasonal demands.
• Cultivate positive, friendly relationships with vendors; handle escalations and maintain up-to-date documentation on vendor discount policies, payment terms, and contact lists.
• Responsible for maintaining accurate inventory levels, product code, name/title, and price for all products across all relevant company systems/software, utilizing various reports and tools.
• Oversee product purchase orders, monitor the Purchasing inbox, and serve as a dedicated backup to the Inventory Specialist.
• Coordinate the research and troubleshooting of product stock issues (quality, packaging changes, incorrect quantities, prolonged out-of-stocks) and coordinate follow-up with vendors.

Reporting & Analysis

• Review, fine-tune, and dynamically update product reorder points using reports prepared by the Data Analyst.
• Forecast and order new products, pulling ad hoc reports to assess specific sales trends.
• Provide contextualized out-of-stock and overstock reports to executive leadership with actionable suggestions for improvement.

Cross-Departmental

• Serve on the Broader Leadership Team, providing input on strategic planning, new product decisions, and the tactical execution of company-wide initiatives.
• Partner closely with the Warehouse Manager and Receiving team to resolve issues relating to product stock, delivery, returns, product quality, and warehouse organization.
• Coordinate new product launches, overseeing the communication of relevant product information and changes  across the company.

Production Oversight

• Oversee the stock, quality, and workflow optimization of all proprietary GPC products.
• Partner with Quality and Production Specialist to forecast demand and ensure adequate supply of raw materials.

What We’re Looking For:

• Financial Accountability: Proven success in managing or being directly responsible for a budget, P&L, or specific Balance Sheet line items.
• Leadership Experience: 2+ years of experience managing a team of 2+ people.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Business, Economics, Finance, Statistics, Math, or a related field.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient with MS Excel and/or Google Sheets, with light forecasting experience.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to exercise independent judgment and perform calculations to ensure strict inventory accuracy and efficiency.
• Adaptability & Communication: A fast learner who can master new systems/products, and an excellent communicator capable of navigating complex vendor relationships.

Nice to Have:

• E-commerce, retail, or warehouse experience.
• Accounting background or experience with accounting software (preferably QuickBooks Online).
• LEAN process improvement experience.