Inventory Controller
6 days ago
Gatwick
Location: Gatwick HQ & Crawley Factory Reports to: Head of Operations Function: Production | Manufacturing | FMCG | Operations Salary: Competitive About STYRKR STYRKR is a performance nutrition brand creating clean, science-backed supplements for endurance athletes. In addition to our own products, we run a growing contract manufacturing business across powders and liquids. With in-house production and a strong vision, we’re scaling fast — and we need a hands-on Production Manager to lead operations on the factory floor. About the Role We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Inventory Controller to manage and optimise inventory across our fast-paced FMCG environment within the endurance sports nutrition sector. This role is responsible for end-to-end inventory control covering supplier management, raw materials and finished goods stock control, and Sales-to-Operations (S&OP) inventory flow alignment. The successful candidate will ensure high service levels, optimal stock holding, strong supplier performance, and efficient inventory movement from procurement through to fulfilment. Key Responsibilities 1. Supplier & Procurement Inventory Management • Monitor and manage supplier performance including lead times, order accuracy, fill rates, and compliance with service level agreements (SLAs)., • Maintain accurate raw material and packaging inventory levels to support production schedules., • Coordinate purchase orders based on demand forecasts and production plans., • Track inbound shipments and resolve supply disruptions or delays proactively., • Conduct supplier performance reviews and support cost optimisation initiatives., • Ensure proper documentation, batch traceability, and quality compliance for all incoming goods. 2. Raw Materials & Components Inventory Control • Maintain optimal stock levels of raw ingredients, packaging materials, and components., • Set and manage safety stock, reorder points, and minimum order quantities., • Perform regular stock reconciliations and cycle counts to ensure system accuracy., • Minimize waste, expiry risks, and obsolescence — particularly for perishable or regulated nutritional ingredients., • Support new product launches by coordinating inventory readiness with procurement and production teams., • Analyze usage trends and forecast consumption to prevent stock-outs or overstocking. 3. Finished Goods Inventory Management • Oversee finished goods inventory across warehouse(s) and distribution channels., • Ensure accurate inventory records across ERP/WMS systems., • Monitor sell-through rates and adjust replenishment strategies accordingly., • Manage batch control and expiry tracking in line with FMCG best practices., • Optimize inventory turnover and reduce slow-moving or obsolete stock., • Collaborate with logistics partners to maintain accurate dispatch and inventory records. 4. Sales-to-Operations Flow (S&OP Alignment) • Align inventory planning with sales forecasts and promotional activities., • Participate in S&OP meetings to ensure production plans match demand projections., • Identify risks related to demand spikes, seasonality (e.g., race seasons), and product launches., • Provide inventory reporting and insights to Sales, Marketing, and Finance teams., • Ensure smooth order fulfillment while maintaining optimal stock holding levels., • Support demand planning with accurate historical inventory and consumption data. Reporting & Analysis • Produce weekly and monthly inventory performance reports (stock levels, stock turns, fill rate, ageing stock)., • Analyse variances between forecast, production output, and actual sales., • Track KPIs including inventory accuracy, stock days on hand, and supplier OTIF (On Time In Full)., • Identify continuous improvement opportunities in supply chain processes. Key Skills & Competencies • Strong analytical and numerical skills., • Advanced Excel and ERP/WMS proficiency., • Experience in FMCG inventory control (sports nutrition, supplements, or food industry preferred)., • Knowledge of batch tracking, expiry management, and regulated product handling., • Excellent supplier communication and negotiation skills., • Strong cross-functional collaboration abilities., • High attention to detail and strong problem-solving mindset. Qualifications & Experience • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations, or related field., • Understanding of GMP, food safety, or nutritional compliance standards is advantageous. What Success Looks Like • Zero production downtime due to material shortages., • High inventory accuracy (≥98%)., • Improved stock turnover and reduced expired/obsolete stock., • Strong supplier performance and minimal stock-outs., • Seamless alignment between sales forecasts and operational execution. This role is ideal for a supply chain professional who thrives in a dynamic FMCG environment and understands the complexities of managing inventory in performance-driven sports nutrition markets.