At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage stock levels, forecast demand, and optimise inventory performance.
- Company: Join Macfarlane Packaging, a forward-thinking company committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Up to £28,000 salary, 27 days holiday, flexible benefits, and career development.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role while supporting the planet.
- Qualifications: Experience in inventory control and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 28000 £ per year.
Location: Fareham (Midpoint 27 Business Park)
Package: Basic salary up to £28,000 (dependent on experience) plus bonus & flexible benefits package including up to 27 days holiday (plus bank holidays & additional annual leave purchasing scheme)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday
Sector: Packaging Distribution
Optimise stock, drive efficiency, and support business performance. At Macfarlane Packaging, we’re in the business of protecting what matters – our people, our customers, and the planet. We’re equally committed to protecting and developing careers, offering a stable, forward‑thinking environment where your contribution is recognised and your progression supported.
The Role:
As our Inventory Controller, you’ll take ownership of stock management across our site, ensuring the right products are available at the right time while balancing working capital, space utilisation, and margin. Working closely with procurement, sales, and logistics teams, you’ll use data and insight to forecast demand, manage stock levels, and identify opportunities to improve performance. This is a highly visible, cross‑functional role where accuracy, organisation, and commercial awareness are key.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Manage stock levels across allocated sites, ensuring availability aligns with customer demand and service levels
- Forecast inventory requirements using data and customer insight to optimise stock holding
- Monitor and manage aged, excess, and slow‑moving stock to improve margin and reduce waste
- Raise and manage purchase orders for both standard and non‑standard items
- Expedite orders and resolve supply or cost issues to maintain continuity and control spend
- Maintain accurate inventory records, ensuring strong data integrity across systems; manage Goods In schedules and oversee accurate Goods Received Notes (GRNs)
- Support stock holding agreements and ensure purchasing accuracy in line with customer requirements
- Analyse inventory performance and report on key KPIs, identifying areas for improvement
- Work closely with sales, procurement, and logistics teams to align stock planning with customer needs
- Build strong relationships across departments and with suppliers to support effective supply chain performance
What We’re Looking For:
- Experience working in an inventory control, stock management, or supply chain role
- Strong analytical and numerical skills, with confidence working with data and Excel
- Excellent attention to detail and a structured, organised approach
- Ability to prioritise and manage workload in a fast‑paced environment
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work cross‑functionally
- Proactive mindset with the ability to identify issues and implement solutions
- Comfortable managing a large SKU range across multiple product categories
- Experience using ERP or stock management systems
Desirable:
- Previous experience in a distribution or logistics environment
- Understanding of inventory management principles and KPIs
- CIPS qualification (or working towards)
Why Join Macfarlane?
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you both professionally and personally, including:
- 25 days holiday (rising to 27 with service) plus bank holidays
- Additional holiday purchasing scheme
- Contributory pension scheme
- Flexible benefits package including healthcare options
- Employee assistance programme to support wellbeing
- Ongoing training and career development opportunities
- Employee discounts across major retail and leisure brands
- Annual volunteering day
- Long service awards and recognition schemes
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds irrespective of your age, gender, disability, race, nationality, ethnicity, gender expression, religion, or sexual orientation. Should you require any specific support or adjustments during the recruitment process, please email our recruitment team directly.
Inventory Controller in Fareham employer: Macfarlane Group UK Ltd
At Macfarlane Packaging, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and well-being. Located in Fareham, our team enjoys a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and ample holiday allowances, alongside opportunities for ongoing training and career development. We are committed to recognising contributions and creating a stable environment where every employee can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the packaging distribution sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Inventory Controller in Fareham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role thoroughly. Understand their values and how you can contribute to their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on articulating your experience and how it aligns with the Inventory Controller role. Confidence is key, so the more you practice, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Inventory Controller in Fareham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Inventory Controller role. Highlight your experience in stock management and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can optimise stock and drive efficiency!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about inventory control and how your background aligns with our values at Macfarlane Packaging. Let us know how you can contribute to protecting what matters.
Show Off Your Data Skills:Since this role involves a lot of data analysis, make sure to mention your analytical skills and experience with Excel or ERP systems. We love seeing candidates who can forecast demand and manage stock levels effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing talent out there. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Macfarlane Group UK Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Inventory Controller, you'll be working with data and KPIs all day long. Brush up on your analytical skills and be ready to discuss how you've used data in past roles to forecast demand or manage stock levels. Bring examples of how you’ve improved inventory performance!
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
This role requires a structured approach, so come prepared to talk about how you manage your workload. Share specific strategies you use to keep track of stock levels and ensure accuracy in inventory records. A well-organised candidate stands out!
✨Cross-Functional Collaboration
You'll be working closely with procurement, sales, and logistics teams, so highlight your communication skills. Prepare examples of how you've built relationships across departments to improve supply chain performance. Teamwork is key!
✨Be Proactive and Solution-Oriented
The job calls for a proactive mindset, so think of instances where you've identified issues and implemented solutions. Discuss how you handle challenges like excess stock or supply issues, and show that you're ready to take ownership of your responsibilities.
