Inventory Manager

About the role

Sabenza IT & Recruitment is recruiting an Inventory Manager in Durban to own the inventory across the distribution centre. The role sets the inventory strategy, keeps stock accurate and available, cuts holding costs and leads the inventory and logistics team. It is the first point of contact for warehouse management system issues in the DC.

Key responsibilities

• Set and run an inventory strategy covering planning, availability and cost, and analyse holdings against history, stock takes, cycle counts and movements to close gaps.
• Monitor inventory levels so stock is available on time and holding costs stay low.
• Manage the inventory team, including guidance, training and performance.
• Keep communication clear between the distribution centre and head office, and work with merchandising, planning and operations.
• Ensure storage complies with health and safety law and site standards.
• Support WMS issues in the DC, including receiving, put-away, picking, packing, dispatch, transfers and cycle counts.
• Investigate stock variances, exception reports and failed transactions, and escalate system defects to IT.
• Keep warehouse master data clean (locations, bins, cartons, pallets, stock status) and train staff on WMS procedures and controls.
• Produce and read WMS reports and KPIs on accuracy, picking, receiving and user activity.

Required profile

• Grade 12 and a tertiary qualification relevant to the role.
• 5 to 7 years in logistics, supply chain or a related field.
• At least 2 to 3 years in a leadership or management role.
• Strong knowledge of warehouse management systems and warehouse operations.
• Attention to detail, accountability, teamwork, integrity, reliability, adaptability and strong verbal and written communication.

Required skills

• Warehouse management systems and RF scanning
• Inventory control and warehouse system reporting
• Ability to read system reports, trace transaction flows and find the root cause of variances
• Strong Excel and MS Office