Inventory Manager - Jumia (Full Time)

We are looking for an experienced Inventory Manager to lead inventory operations at our fulfillment center, ensuring stock is accurate, available and cost-efficient. You will lead a team of inventory associates, strengthen inventory controls, and work with cross-functional teams and suppliers to keep customer orders moving on time.

What you will be doing:

• Oversee and manage all aspects of inventory management within the fulfillment center, including receiving, storing, counting, and tracking inventory levels to ensure accuracy and availability of stock.
• Develop and implement inventory control procedures, policies, and best practices to optimize inventory accuracy, minimize shrinkage, and reduce carrying costs while meeting customer service requirements.
• Monitor and maintain inventory levels to support operational needs and fulfill customer orders in a timely manner, collaborating with cross-functional teams, including Purchasing, Sales, and Operations, to optimize inventory levels and stock replenishment strategies.
• Conduct regular cycle counts, physical inventories, and reconciliations to identify discrepancies, investigate root causes, and implement corrective actions to resolve inventory discrepancies and improve accuracy.
• Utilize inventory management systems (IMS) and technology tools to track inventory movements, monitor stock levels, and generate reports on key performance indicators (KPIs) for management review.
• Coordinate with external vendors and suppliers to manage inbound shipments, resolve receiving discrepancies, and ensure timely and accurate receipt of goods and materials.
• Lead and develop a team of inventory associates, providing guidance, support, and training to ensure compliance with inventory management policies, procedures, and safety guidelines.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize warehouse layout, storage configurations, and picking processes to maximize space utilization, improve efficiency, and minimize handling costs.
• Analyze inventory data and trends to identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and inventory optimization, and implement initiatives to enhance inventory management practices.
• Prepare and present regular reports and updates on inventory performance, including inventory levels, turnover rates, and accuracy metrics, to senior management.

What we are looking for:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field; Master's degree or certification in inventory management is a plus.
• 5+ years of experience in inventory management, warehouse operations, or supply chain management, with demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills.
• Strong knowledge of inventory management principles, practices, and systems, with experience in implementing inventory control procedures and best practices in a fast-paced distribution or fulfillment center environment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex data sets, identify trends, and develop insights and recommendations to optimize inventory performance.
• Proficiency in using inventory management systems (IMS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and other technology tools for inventory tracking, reporting, and analysis.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with team members, management, and stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on delivering tangible business outcomes and driving continuous improvement in inventory management practices.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work variable shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed to support operational needs.