Inventory and Network Optimisation Specialist
Supply Chain Inventory and Network Optimization Specialist
Key Responsibilities:
- Execute, tune, and continuously refine inventory and network optimization runs (e.g., safety stock optimization, supply/network models).
- Validate and interpret optimizer outputs; provide clear, actionable recommendations to planning teams.
- Act as the primary expert on trade-offs between service levels, inventory positioning, costs, and network design.
- Collaborate with Supply Planning, Demand Planning, Sales, and Finance to convert optimization results into executable plans and targets.
- Support S\&OP/IBP processes with analytical insights on service, inventory, cost, and working capital.
- Monitor optimization performance; identify inconsistencies and propose corrective actions.
- Ensure optimizer inputs (demand, service policies, lead times, costs, constraints) reflect current realities.
- Define and report KPIs to assess model effectiveness and inventory efficiency.
- Drive adoption of optimized planning through stakeholder education and capability building.
- Partner with IT and external vendors on optimization-related topics and continuous improvement.
Requirements:
Skills & Personal Characteristics
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills; deep understanding of supply chain optimization trade-offs.
- Proven ability to solve inventory optimization, network design, safety stock, and lot size challenges.
- Familiarity with advanced planning systems (SAP IBP preferred).
- Ability to translate complex outputs into clear business insights for senior stakeholders.
- Strong business acumen (financial concepts, working capital, P\&L impact).
- Detail-oriented, structured, and disciplined with focus on data integrity.
- Collaborative communicator across multiple functions.
- Self-starter, proactive, and comfortable in an independent specialist role.
- Basic understanding of SAP MM and SD data structures is an advantage.
Experience
- 4-10 years in supply chain planning and optimization.
- Hands-on experience applying optimization models in business contexts.
- Experience supporting senior decision-making via scenario analysis and KPI interpretation.
- Exposure to S\&OP/IBP governance forums.
- Background in complex, fast-moving supply chains (chemicals, polymers, industrial goods) is a plus.
Education
- Bachelor's in Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or related field.
- Master's degree or certifications (APICS CPIM/CSCP, SAP IBP, Operations Research) desirable.
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