National Inventory Manager in Manchester

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced National Inventory Manager to take ownership of inventory strategy, stock governance, and supply chain performance across a complex, multi-site national operation. This is a high-impact leadership role where you will be responsible for the complete inventory lifecycle, driving stock availability, optimising working capital, improving inventory accuracy, and implementing best-in-class inventory management processes. Working closely with Procurement, Supply Chain, Operations, Construction, Finance and IT teams, you will play a key role in supporting business growth while delivering operational excellence.

If you are an inventory leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys building scalable processes, improving systems, and leading high-performing teams, this opportunity offers significant scope to make a measurable impact.

Your new role as National Inventory Manager will involve leading inventory planning, stock control and inventory optimisation activities across multiple sites and operational locations. You will act as the central authority for inventory management, ensuring stock availability aligns with business demand whilst maintaining tight control of inventory costs and working capital.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading national demand forecasting and supply planning activities with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Developing and optimising inventory strategies, re-order points and stock parameters.
• Managing inventory across raw materials, finished goods and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Operations) stock.
• Designing, implementing and improving inventory management processes and controls.
• Managing ERP and inventory management systems to provide accurate, real-time stock visibility.
• Developing KPI dashboards and inventory reporting to support data-driven decision making.
• Driving stock accuracy through robust audit programmes, annual stock takes and compliance procedures.
• Working closely with suppliers and third-party partners to minimise inventory risk and stock obsolescence.
• Identifying opportunities to improve service levels, reduce lead times and optimise working capital.
• Building, leading and developing a high-performing inventory team.
• Supporting senior leadership with strategic recommendations on inventory performance, cost reduction and operational efficiency.
• Travelling regularly to operational locations across the UK.

To be successful in this role, you will bring a strong combination of inventory management expertise, commercial awareness and leadership capability. You will have:

• Significant inventory management experience within a large-scale, multi-site or matrix environment.
• Proven experience managing inventory across multiple operational locations.
• Strong knowledge of inventory control, stock management and supply chain planning principles.
• Experience using ERP, MRP, and/or SAP/D365 inventory management systems.
• A track record of improving inventory accuracy, stock availability and working capital performance.
• Experience developing inventory KPIs, reporting frameworks and performance dashboards.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex operational and inventory data.
• Proven ability to establish replenishment strategies and optimise stock holding levels.
• Experience leading inventory audits, stock takes and compliance activities.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strong leadership experience with the ability to coach, mentor and develop teams.
• A proactive, resilient and solutions-focused approach to problem solving.
• Flexibility to travel frequently across multiple locations.

In return, you will have the opportunity to join a business where inventory performance is central to operational success. You will receive a competitive salary and benefits package, which can be negotiable for the right person. You will also have hybrid and flexible working opportunities.

You will benefit from:

• A senior leadership opportunity with national responsibility.
• The chance to shape inventory strategy and best practice across a multi-site operation.
• Significant exposure to senior stakeholders and cross-functional leadership teams.
• The opportunity to build and develop a high-performing inventory function.
• A varied role combining strategic planning, operational leadership and continuous improvement.
• A collaborative and fast-moving business environment where your expertise will directly influence performance and growth.

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.