Inventory Planning Manager – Optimize Stock & Working Capital

About the role

The Inventory Planning Manager is responsible for designing and executing inventory strategies that balance supply and demand while minimising excess stock and working capital. Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain, the role works closely with procurement, production and logistics to ensure inventory levels support both instrument manufacturing and spare‑part supply.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and manage end‑to‑end inventory planning processes aligned with S&OP targets.
• Leverage SAP ERP and SAP SCM functionality for system‑based planning, parametrisation and rule execution.
• Formalise inventory budgeting, including working‑capital investment and external storage requirements.
• Optimise Engineering Cut‑Over (ECO) processes to minimise residual inventory and manage last‑time buys.
• Coordinate production, labour and capacity plans with manufacturing using SAP and offline tools.
• Drive working‑capital reductions and right‑size inventory levels.
• Mentor and lead inventory analysts and procurement/planning staff.
• Monitor inventory KPIs, create continuous‑improvement projects and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with strategic procurement to mitigate supply risks and with inventory control to ensure data integrity.

Required profile

• Proven experience in inventory planning or supply‑chain management.
• Strong analytical mindset with a track record of improving inventory KPIs.
• Leadership ability to manage and develop a team of analysts.
• Effective cross‑functional collaboration with procurement, production and logistics.

Required skills

• SAP (ERP) and SAP SCM
• Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
• Warehouse Management System (WMS)
• Inventory optimisation tools and techniques