Senior Inventory Planning Analyst
Job Summary:
HD Supply is seeking an experienced and analytical Senior Inventory Planning Analyst to optimize inventory performance, improve product availability, and support supply chain efficiency.
This role is responsible for analyzing inventory levels, developing replenishment strategies, and driving improvements in fill rates while minimizing excess inventory. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical capabilities, experience with SAP and inventory planning systems, and the ability to collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional partners to deliver measurable business results.
This position also serves as a subject matter expert, providing guidance and mentorship to junior team members while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Inventory Planning & Optimization:
- Analyze and manage inventory levels to maintain optimal product availability, maximize fill rates, and minimize excess inventory.
- Leverage SAP and other inventory management systems to execute replenishment and inventory control strategies.
- Evaluate and optimize inventory planning parameters, including economic order quantity (EOQ), minimum/maximum stock levels, safety stock, and product velocity classifications.
- Develop and execute inventory strategies for seasonal demand, SKU transitions, and customer-specific inventory requirements.
- Assess the financial and operational impact of proposed inventory adjustments and recommend data-driven solutions.
Data Analytics & Performance Improvement:
- Monitor inventory performance through daily reporting, exception management, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Identify trends, inventory imbalances, and opportunities to improve fill rates, inventory efficiency, and customer service.
- Partner with Inventory Analytics and Merchandising to address inventory shortages, excess stock, and product availability challenges.
- Analyze complex inventory data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
- Drive process improvements and implement standardized inventory planning practices across the distribution network.
Supplier & Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Build and maintain effective supplier relationships to support inventory availability and operational performance.
- Partner with suppliers to resolve fill rate challenges, lead-time variability, damaged shipments, and product returns.
- Collaborate with Merchandising, Inventory Analytics, and other business partners to align inventory strategies with business objectives.
- Proactively identify supply chain risks and develop solutions to minimize operational disruptions.
Project Leadership & Team Development:
- Lead or support inventory planning projects, including coordinating activities, monitoring progress, and evaluating results.
- Serve as a subject matter expert on inventory planning processes, systems, and best practices.
- Mentor junior analysts by providing technical guidance, knowledge sharing, and professional development support.
- Promote consistency, accountability, and continuous improvement across inventory planning activities.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, Operations, Analytics, or a related field preferred.
- Typically 5–8 years of relevant experience in inventory planning, supply chain management, inventory analytics, or a related discipline.
- Alternatively, a master’s degree in a related field with 3–5 years of relevant experience.
- Experience using SAP or comparable enterprise resource planning (ERP) and inventory management systems.
- Strong understanding of inventory optimization, replenishment strategies, safety stock, EOQ, and inventory performance metrics.
- Experience analyzing fill rates, supplier performance, inventory trends, and operational data.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, including the ability to navigate complex situations with incomplete information.
- Demonstrated ability to lead projects, influence cross-functional partners, and mentor junior team members.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and relationship-management skills.
- Professional certifications may be required in certain areas.
Join Our Team:
At HD Supply, you’ll play a key role in ensuring the right products are available at the right time while supporting inventory efficiency and customer satisfaction. We’re looking for a proactive, data-driven professional who thrives on solving complex challenges, building strong partnerships, and improving supply chain performance.