Inventory Supervisor

The Inventory Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the procurement, control, accuracy, and availability of inventory to support uninterrupted business operations. The role ensures optimal stock levels, effective supplier coordination, accurate record-keeping, and compliance with company policies and South African regulatory requirements. Inventory Procurement Plan, coordinate, and execute inventory procurement activities in line with demand forecasts, production plans, and sales requirements. Liaise with suppliers to place purchase orders, confirm delivery schedules, and resolve supply issues. Monitor supplier performance, including lead times, quality, pricing, and service levels. Ensure procurement activities comply with company approval processes and budgetary controls. Collaborate with Finance and Supply Chain teams to manage purchase orders, invoices, and GRNs. Inventory Control & Management Maintain optimal inventory levels to prevent stock-outs, excess stock, and obsolete inventory. Implement and enforce inventory control procedures, including FIFO/FEFO principles where applicable. Conduct regular cycle counts and participate in annual stock takes, investigating and resolving variances. Ensure accurate inventory records in ERP/WMS systems at all times. Analyse inventory movements, slow-moving, and obsolete stock, and recommend corrective actions. Warehousing & Operations Support Supervise receiving, storage, picking, and dispatch activities to ensure stock integrity and traceability. Ensure inventory is stored in accordance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Coordinate with logistics and distribution teams to support timely order fulfilment. Reporting & Continuous Improvement Prepare inventory and procurement reports, including stock levels, variances, and procurement performance. Identify opportunities to improve inventory processes, controls, and systems. Support audits by providing accurate inventory and procurement documentation. People & Compliance Management Supervise and guide inventory clerks or warehouse staff where applicable. Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety standards and company policies. Adhere to relevant South African legislation, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act and internal governance requirements. Develop and train on SOPs MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Qualifications Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Procurement, or a related field. Advanced Power BI and Excel Experience 35 years experience in inventory management, procurement, or warehousing within a manufacturing, retail, or FMCG environment. Proven experience in inventory control, stock reconciliation, and supplier coordination. Skills & Competencies Strong understanding of inventory procurement and control principles. Experience with ERP or inventory management systems ( Syspro). Analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Key Performance Areas (KPAs) Inventory accuracy and variance control Procurement lead times and supplier performance Stock availability and turnover Compliance with policies, procedures, and audits Cost control and waste reduction