Southern Cross Motors Limited
Southern Cross Motors Limited is seeking to hire an experienced and motivated individual for the position of Inventory Analyst to be based at the Head Office in Lusaka
Job Title
Inventory Analyst
Reporting to
Parts Manager
Department
Parts Department
Main purpose
The Inventory Analyst is responsible for managing and optimizing inventory levels within the dealership to ensure smooth operations and maximize profitability. This role involves analyzing inventory data, identifying trends, and making data-driven recommendations to optimize stock levels and minimize stockouts.
Main Responsibilities:
1. Inventory Management:
- Monitor and analyze inventory levels across all product lines.
- Identify slow-moving and fast-moving items to optimize stock levels.
- Implement inventory control strategies, such as cycle counting and stock rotation.
- Collaborate with purchasing and sales teams to forecast demand and adjust inventory accordingly.
- Manage inventory transfers between dealership locations.
2. Data Analysis:
- Utilize inventory management systems or tools like Excel to track and analyze inventory data.
- Generate reports on inventory performance, including turnover rates, stock levels, and sales trends.
- Identify trends and patterns in inventory data to inform decision-making.
- Conduct root cause analysis for inventory discrepancies and implement corrective actions.
3. System and Process Improvement:
- Identify opportunities to improve inventory management processes and systems.
- Implement new technologies and tools to enhance inventory efficiency.
- Stay updated on industry best practices and trends in inventory management.
4. Maintain Inventory Health:
- Prepare accurate Suggested Stock Orders (SSOs) to prevent stockouts.
- Monitor lost sales and analyze recurring parts for potential stocking.
5. Stock-Taking:
- Conduct perpetual and bi-annual stock-takes.
6. Warehouse Housekeeping:
- Collaborate with warehouse controllers to ensure optimal warehouse conditions, including bin audits, general cleanliness, and safety.
7. Price Analysis:
- Perform periodic price reviews to ensure inventory is competitively priced in line with market conditions.
Qualifications
· Full Grade Twelve Certificate
· Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Production Management, or a related field.
· Certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Inventory Analytics are a plus.
· At least 3 years of experience in inventory management or supply chain roles (automotive industry experience preferred).
· Understanding automotive parts and accessories, their pricing, demand patterns, and supplier relationships.
· Strong negotiating and selling skills.
· Technical understanding of vehicles and parts usage.
Required Skills and Competencies:
- Data Analysis: Strong analytical skills to interpret inventory data and identify trends.
- Excel: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis and reporting.
- Inventory Control: Expertise in principles like cycle counting, stock rotation, and ABC analysis.
- Demand Forecasting: Proficient in forecasting demand to maintain optimal inventory levels.
- Supply Chain Management: Knowledge of procurement, logistics, and warehousing processes.
- Problem-Solving: Ability to resolve inventory issues efficiently.
- Process Improvement: Proactive in identifying and implementing system enhancements.
- Attention to detail for ensuring inventory accuracy.
- Strong organizational skills to manage and prioritize multiple tasks.
- Effective written and verbal communication with various stakeholders.
- Analytical thinking for complex data interpretation and informed decision-making.
- Collaborative teamwork skills for working across functional teams.
Method of Application:
Interested applicants that meet the above qualifications should send a cover letter and CV with full contact details of three referees to the Human Resource Manager, Southern Cross Motors, Plot 14100, Kafue Road, Lusaka or Email: [email protected] by Friday 6th December 2024.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.