Director Inventory Planning

Job Summary:

The Director of Inventory Planning in the hospitality industry is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of inventory control and demand forecasting. This role ensures that the inventory levels across all properties (hotels, resorts, restaurants, etc.) are optimized to meet guest demand while minimizing costs. The Director will work closely with procurement, operations, and finance teams to develop and execute strategies for inventory management, ensuring alignment with business objectives and service quality standards.

Hybrid: Orlando, FL**

Key Responsibilities:

Inventory Strategy Development:

• Develop and implement inventory management strategies that optimize stock levels and support business objectives.
• Collaborate with operations and procurement to align inventory levels with forecasted demand and market trends.
• Set key performance indicators (KPIs) for inventory performance, including turnover rates, stock accuracy, and inventory aging.

Forecasting and Demand Planning:

• Lead the development of accurate demand forecasts using historical data, market trends, and future demand projections.
• Use data analytics and software tools to predict customer needs, seasonality impacts, and special event requirements.
• Adjust plans to accommodate fluctuations in demand, ensuring inventory levels can support peak and off-peak seasons.

Supply Chain Management:

• Work closely with suppliers and vendors to ensure timely delivery and quality of inventory items.
• Establish strong supplier relationships and negotiate favorable terms to optimize costs without compromising quality.
• Ensure inventory is maintained within budget and adhere to contractual agreements with suppliers.

Inventory Optimization:

• Regularly review inventory levels to prevent overstocking or stockouts, ensuring an optimal balance between cost and availability.
• Analyze slow-moving and excess stock and recommend action plans to reduce or eliminate inefficiencies.
• Implement processes to monitor and reduce shrinkage, obsolescence, and wastage.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Coordinate with finance and operations teams to develop and manage inventory budgets.
• Partner with property managers to understand individual needs and challenges related to inventory management.
• Ensure seamless communication across departments to maintain the availability of critical items during high-demand periods.

Technology and Process Improvement:

• Lead the implementation of advanced inventory management systems, such as ERP and demand forecasting software.
• Continuously evaluate inventory management processes to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies that could enhance inventory control and planning.

Reporting and Analytics:

• Develop and present regular reports on inventory metrics to senior leadership.
• Provide insights and recommendations based on data analysis to drive decision-making and optimize supply chain performance.
• Track the effectiveness of inventory strategies, providing actionable feedback for continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Hospitality Management, or a related field; a Master’s degree is a plus.
• 7-10 years of experience in inventory management or supply chain planning, preferably in the hospitality industry.
• Proven experience with inventory management software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, etc.) and demand forecasting tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and influence decision-making.
• Experience in managing multi-property or multi-site inventory operations is highly desirable.