Inventory Control Specialist

Photronics is hiring! For more than 50 years, Photronics has been a global leader in photomask technology—powering the innovation behind smartphones, computers, automotive technology, and countless devices used every day. Our success is built on quality, collaboration, and the dedication of our people. Join us and be part of a company recognized for cutting-edge technology, exceptional service, and strong customer partnerships.

We are seeking an experienced Inventory Control Specialist who will oversee day-to-day supply chain activities, ensuring the efficient, cost-effective and compliant movement of goods, materials and information across the business. The role is responsible for supporting purchasing, inventory control, supplier coordination, logistics, customs clearance for imports and exports, and team performance to ensure customer requirements and operational targets are met.

Location: This is an on-site position based in Bridgend, Wales.

Travel: Less than 10% travel for on-site support as needed.

What You'll Do:

• Supervise daily supply chain operations, including purchasing support, stock availability, order fulfilment, logistics coordination and supplier follow-up.
• Monitor inventory levels, stock accuracy and replenishment activity to minimise shortages, excess stock and operational delays.
• Liaise with suppliers, transport providers, warehouse teams and internal departments to ensure materials and goods are delivered on time and to the required standard.
• Support demand planning, forecasting and scheduling activity by maintaining accurate data and escalating risks or constraints.
• Track supplier and logistics performance against agreed KPIs, including lead times, delivery accuracy, service levels, quality and cost.
• Resolve day-to-day supply chain issues such as delivery delays, stock discrepancies, damaged goods, urgent requirements and supplier non-conformance.
• Coordinate customs clearance activity for imports and exports, working with freight forwarders, customs brokers and internal teams to ensure timely movement of goods.
• Review and maintain accurate import/export documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, commodity codes, country of origin information and customs declarations where required.
• Support compliance with UK import and export requirements, duty and tax processes, export controls and company record-keeping standards, escalating any customs risks, delays or discrepancies.
• Prepare reports, dashboards and updates for management on stock, supplier performance, costs, risks and continuous improvement actions.
• Ensure supply chain processes comply with company policies, health and safety requirements, quality standards and relevant UK regulations.
• Supervise, coach and support supply chain administrators, planners or coordinators, including workload allocation, training and performance feedback.
• Identify and implement process improvements to reduce cost, improve service levels, increase accuracy and strengthen operational resilience.

Experience:

• Previous significant experience in supply chain, logistics, procurement, inventory control, production planning or a similar operational role.
• Experience supervising or supporting a small team, allocating work and monitoring performance.
• Strong understanding of stock management, supplier coordination, order processing and logistics processes.
• Confident using Microsoft Excel and business systems such as ERP, MRP, WMS or stock management software.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and maintain attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with suppliers, customers, colleagues, management and across departments.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills; proactive, practical and solution-focused, with the ability to interpret data and respond quickly to operational issues.
• Commercial awareness, including an understanding of cost control, supplier performance and service delivery.
• Knowledge of health and safety, quality and compliance requirements relevant to supply chain or warehouse operations.
• Working knowledge of import/export requirements, customs processes and associated documentation.
• Reliable, accountable and able to remain calm under pressure.
• Customer-focused with a strong sense of urgency.

Education:

• GCSEs or equivalent in English and Math are desirable.
• A relevant qualification in supply chain, logistics, business administration, procurement or operations management is desirable but not essential.
• Professional membership or study towards CIPS, CILT, APICS/ASCM or a similar supply chain qualification would be advantageous.