Inventory Control Manager; On-Site

Position: Inventory Control Manager (On-Site)
Inventory Control Manager

The Inventory Control Manager is responsible for leading and managing all inventory control activities within a food manufacturing and packaging operation. This role ensures the accuracy, integrity, and availability of raw materials, packaging materials, work-in-process (WIP), and finished goods inventory. The Inventory Control Manager develops and maintains inventory processes, drives continuous improvement initiatives, minimizes inventory variances, and ensures compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

This position partners closely with Operations, Warehouse, Supply Chain, Procurement, Production Planning, Quality, and Finance to optimize inventory performance, improve material flow, and support business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Inventory Management & Control

* Lead all inventory control functions across raw materials, packaging materials, WIP, and finished goods.

* Ensure inventory accuracy through cycle count programs, physical inventories, and reconciliation processes.

* Develop, implement, and maintain inventory control procedures and best practices.

* Investigate inventory discrepancies, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.

* Monitor inventory transactions to ensure accuracy and compliance with established procedures.

* Manage inventory adjustments and approvals in accordance with company policies.

* Maintain accurate inventory records within ERP and warehouse management systems.

Operations & Supply Chain Collaboration

* Partner with Production, Planning, Procurement, and Warehouse teams to ensure material availability and inventory optimization.

* Support production scheduling by ensuring timely and accurate inventory transactions.

* Coordinate inventory-related activities during new product launches, packaging changes, and production transitions.

* Work closely with Supply Chain teams to reduce excess and obsolete inventory while minimizing stock-out risks.

* Collaborate with Finance to support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end inventory reporting requirements.

Food Safety, Quality & Compliance

* Ensure inventory practices comply with food safety regulations, GMPs, HACCP, SQF/BRC standards, and internal quality requirements.

* Support traceability programs, product recalls, mock recalls, and inventory audits.

* Maintain proper lot tracking, date coding, and inventory rotation practices (FIFO/FEFO).

* Ensure proper handling and storage of food products and packaging materials.

Leadership & Team Development

* Lead, coach, and develop Inventory Control Supervisors, Coordinators, and/or Inventory Analysts.

* Establish performance expectations and accountability measures for inventory team members.

* Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accuracy, and operational excellence.

* Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and support employee development plans.

* Assist with staffing, training, and succession planning initiatives.

Continuous Improvement

* Analyze inventory trends, variances, and key performance indicators to identify improvement opportunities.

* Lead Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement projects focused on inventory accuracy and material flow.

* Utilize root cause analysis methodologies to resolve recurring inventory issues.

* Recommend process improvements that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve inventory visibility.

* Support ERP system enhancements and inventory-related technology initiatives.