VMI Manager
Columbia Forest Group

Job Info

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OUR COMPANY PURPOSE: "Significant Service"
At Columbia Forest Products our purpose is to significantly serve our employees and their families, customers, communities, and natural resources.

Columbia Forest Products, employee-owned and leading manufacturer of decorative hardwood plywood in North America, has an opening for a Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) Manager. This position will oversee and maintain inventory replenishment for accounts who are under a VMI Agreement. The VMI Manager will work with various departments within the organization to oversee and maintain customer's inventory replenishment levels and stocking models based upon approved scheduled and agreed upon targets.

Responsibilities:

• Collaboration with and Onboarding of Customers: Establish and maintain strong relationships with external customers to ensure smooth communication and cooperation in managing inventory levels.

• Onboard new accounts when called upon using Onboarding process.
• Individual will monitor product availability, pricing, and lead times. They will analyze data to prepare accurate VMI models.

• Inventory Planning: Analyze demand forecasts, sales data, and inventory levels to determine optimal stock levels for each product. Develop and implement inventory strategies to meet customer demands while minimizing excess stock and carrying costs.

• Individual will understand all VMI parameters, calculations, and data feeds, and will work closely with ISR's to generate replenishment orders to ensure optimal stocking levels and no stock outs.
• Quarterly remove and monitor slow moving items.

• Order Management: Place orders based on inventory requirements, pricing, lead times, and stock replenishment policies.
• Monitor order status and track shipments to ensure timely delivery and minimize stockouts.
• Expedite and resolve any shipping, delivery, ordering or system issues that may affect expected replenishment targets.
• Ensure accurate invoicing and 100% customer satisfaction.
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as fill rates, inventory turnover, and stock accuracy to evaluate the effectiveness of inventory management strategies. Identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Data Analysis: Utilize data analysis tools and techniques to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for optimization in inventory management processes. Generate reports and provide insights to support decision-making and improve operational efficiency.
• Risk Management: Anticipate and mitigate potential risks in inventory management, such as supply chain disruptions, stock shortages, and excess inventory. Develop contingency plans and work closely to address any issues promptly.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with internal teams, including Field Sales Representatives (FSRs), Inside Sales Representatives (ISR), purchasing, logistics, and finance, to ensure alignment and coordination in inventory management activities. Communicate effectively across departments to address any issues or concerns.

• Candidate will be required to cross train in the Inside Sales Representative (ISR) role so that they can offer support and help to the Customer Service Team.

• Continuous Improvement: Proactively seek opportunities to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency in inventory management. Implement best practices and recommend innovative solutions to optimize inventory performance.

• Execute and develop standard work & documentation for all processes.

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, logistics, manufacturing, or a related field. Advanced degree or professional certifications (e.g., CPIM, CSCP) may be preferred.
• Proven experience in inventory management, preferably in a VMI or supplier management role. Familiarity with inventory planning, procurement processes, and supply chain dynamics.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, ERP systems) to interpret complex data sets and generate actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills to interact effectively with vendors, internal teams, and other stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to identify issues, analyze root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Knowledge of inventory management software and systems, such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and WMS (Warehouse Management System), is desirable.
• Understanding of supply chain concepts, including demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and risk management strategies.
• Ability to work effectively with others in multiple locations, within different functional areas, and at all levels in the organization.
• Ability to master subject matter and become a product expert.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 (i.e., Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Power BI, Microsoft Teams).
• Strong verbal communication skills are essential for interacting with customers over the phone or in person.
• Proficiency in written communication is crucial for handling emails & other written inquiries.
• Ability to work independently.

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