Inventory Control Specialist - Chicago, IL

Imagine a company that recognizes excellence in not only the products it sells, but also in its employees. R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. is that company. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of quality and professionalism - and we treat our employees like the valuable assets they are.

Founded in 1954, R.S. Hughes Co., Inc. is a dynamic, North American distributor of industrial supplies. With 49 warehouse sites in the United States and Mexico, we maintain an extensive inventory of adhesives, abrasives, electrical, static control, tapes, labeling and safety products.

In addition to competitive salaries and benefits, we offer an environment that asks you to make a difference. We value hard work and common sense, and we consistently reward those that exemplify these traits. If you're looking for a great team to grow with and if you are willing to embrace the challenges of being expected to be the best, we welcome you to come join the R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. team!

Job Summary

The Inventory Control Specialist is responsible for a range of functions that ensure the accuracy and efficiency of inventory management, such as establishing and managing effective inventory levels, initiating cross-division transfers to balance excess inventory, conducting regular inventory audits and updating and maintaining inventory records. This key role is also responsible for implementing and following inventory policies and procedures, identifying and reporting any inventory issues or risks, and collaborating with other departments and stakeholders to coordinate inventory needs and demands. This role is expected to adhere to all company policies and safety protocols.

Core Responsibilities

• Creates and maintains inventory lists and updates inventory records and ERP system to ensure accurate and timely inventory tracking.

• Work with cross-functional teams to forecast inventory needs and identify potential stock issues such as shortages or surplus.

• Partners with Sales, Customer Care and Operations to establish accurate usage numbers and manages OP/OQ levels across assigned SKUs and client groups.

• Monitors inventory levels to identify and mitigate potential stock-outs or overstock situations.

• Proactively directs transfer of excess inventory between divisions to ensure consistent availability for customers.

• Manages inventory aging and coordinates proper rotation or buyback/ disposal of obsolete inventory.

• Works with Sales, Customer Care and Operations to establish Make to Order (MTO) quantities for New Business and obtains customer purchase commitment to protect against loss.

• Develops and maintains "high-risk" customer and inventory matrices and sets priorities/ actions to reduce exposure.

• Collaborates with purchasing and logistics teams to optimize procurement and transportation processes.

• Develops and implements SOPs for inventory management and continuously works to improve inventory operations.

• Reviews and analyzes inventory data to identify trends/ areas for improvement and develops/ implements action plans accordingly.

• Notifies sales on supplier product material change notifications.

• Coordinates physical inventory audits as needed.

• Other job duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, logistics, or a related field.

• Minimum of two years of experience in inventory management in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Skills That Will Make You Successful

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Experience with inventory control, forecasting, and analysis.

• Working knowledge of material planning and purchasing principles.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work well in a team environment.

• Experience working with an ERP system, inventory management software, or similar tools.

• Knowledge of inventory principles, concepts, and procedures.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with strong attention to detail.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods during physical inventory counts.

Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age (40 and over), sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, military or veteran status or any other basis protected by state, federal or local law. It is the intent of the Company to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local legislation concerning equal opportunity in employment.