Inventory Controller

at  UPL ltd

INVENTORY CONTROLLER

Job Id: 9778
City:Olifantsfontein, Gauteng, South Africa
Department: SCM
Function: SCM
Employee Type: Permanent Full Time
Seniority Level: Associate
Description:
Job Title Job Title : Inventory Controller, South Africa
Lo Location: Clayville, Johannesburg

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Diploma/Degree in Logistics / Supply Chain Management.
• Previous record of Inventory Management essential.
• SAP experience (MM modules) essential.
• SAP Master Data knowledge.
• Advanced Microsoft Office suite.
• Experience or proven track record in managing or collaborating with the 3PL.
• Customer Service management.
• Import & Export Management experience required.
• WMS & EDI System Management.

BEHAVIOURAL REQUIREMENTS

• Demonstrate a strong drive to operate and engage with cross functional teams to deliver improvements.
• Attention to detail.
• Analytical and Methodical problem-solving.
• Ability to operate under high pressure environment /situations.
• Time management proficiency.
• Strong communication and negotiation Skills.
• Customer focus and team collaboration.
• Adapt in Change Management.
• Professional fluency in English

ROLE SUMMARY

The Inventory Controller is a key strategic role within the Supply Chain Management function, responsible for overseeing and optimizing the inventory management processes across multiple 3PL sites and own sites within Southern Africa. This role is crucial in driving the organization’s operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing service delivery through the meticulous management of inventory across a complex and geographically dispersed network.
The Inventory Controller leads initiatives to ensure the accuracy, availability, and integrity of stock, contributing directly to the company’s ability to meet customer demands, minimize production downtime, and optimize warehouse operations. This position requires a deep understanding of inventory management principles, advanced analytical capabilities, and a strategic approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
In addition, this role is specifically responsible for managing stock at all warehouse sites, this is achieved by conducting weekly book to book alignments with the various 3PL sites and completing monthly stock cycle counts, by allocating items to be counted, corrected & captured daily to ensure, and maintain accurate stock holdings at all times. The Inventory Controller will strive to achieve real time transactions and reduce overall operational costs at all warehouse sites by monitoring and verifying transactional data and normal day to day activities.

PERSONAL/TEAM ACCOUNTABILITY

Ownership of Results: The Inventory Controller is personally accountable for the accuracy and integrity of inventory data across all 3PL sites including UPL warehouses. This includes ensuring that stock counts, reconciliations, and all inventory transactions are executed with precision and are aligned with company standards.
Proactive Problem-Solving: The individual in this role is responsible for identifying and addressing discrepancies, inefficiencies, or risks in inventory management. They are expected to take proactive measures to prevent issues and to drive corrective actions when necessary.
Continuous Improvement: The Inventory Controller is accountable for continuously seeking out opportunities to enhance processes, reduce costs, and improve the overall efficiency of inventory operations. This includes staying updated on industry best practices and implementing relevant innovations.
Collaborative Leadership: While the Inventory Controller is responsible for their own performance, they are also accountable for fostering a collaborative environment where other team members are empowered to contribute to inventory management success. This includes leading cross-functional initiatives and ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned with inventory objectives.
Shared Goals: The success of the inventory management function depends on the collective efforts of the UPL Warehouse staff and 3PL team. The Inventory Controller is responsible for ensuring that the team meets its collective goals, such as achieving inventory accuracy targets, reducing stock discrepancies, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY

Strategic: Routine 50%; Tactical 30% and Strategic 20%
Number of Direct Reports: 0
Number of Indirect Reports: 5