Inventory Planner

About the Job:

The Inventory Planner plays a vital role in ensuring the right parts are available at the right time while balancing inventory cost, service level, and operational efficiency. This position supports Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) parts supply operations by managing demand, inventory levels, and supplier coordination across a complex manufacturing and distribution network.

Due to the complexities of MMNA systems—including Blue Yonder and Royal 4—this role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.

This role is a hybrid role with in office expectations of 2-3 days a week.

Summary of Role:

The Inventory Planner is responsible for optimizing inventory levels to support customer demand, improving forecast accuracy, enhancing inventory visibility, and reducing overall inventory costs. This role collaborates closely with suppliers, manufacturing partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth material flow and timely issue resolution.

Key focus areas include inventory planning, demand forecasting, safety stock management, process improvement, and KPI monitoring. The Inventory Planner uses data and reporting tools to drive informed decision-making, improve operational performance, and contribute to continuous improvement across MMNA's supply chain.

As a Inventory Planner, You Will:

Inventory Planning & Optimization

• Maintain optimal inventory levels to meet demand while avoiding overstock or stockouts
• Balance supply and demand to minimize cost and maximize efficiency
• Establish and manage safety stock levels to ensure uninterrupted supply

Forecasting & Demand Management

• Review, edit, and improve demand forecasts to align inventory with customer needs
• Improve forecast accuracy to prevent excess inventory and customer backorders

Inventory Visibility & Cost Control

• Enhance visibility into inventory levels, locations, and movements across systems
• Identify and implement strategies to reduce carrying costs, increase inventory turnover, and minimize waste

Process Improvement

• Develop, streamline, and document inventory management processes
• Identify opportunities to automate routine tasks and improve workflow efficiency

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with suppliers, manufacturers, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth inventory flow
• Proactively address and resolve supply chain issues impacting service levels

Performance Metrics & Reporting

• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators, including:
• • Months of supply
  • Order fulfillment and backorder resolution
  • Forecast accuracy
• Use data insights to support decision-making and drive continuous improvement
• Other duties as assigned or required.

Measuring Your Momentum:

First 90 Days - Getting Up to Speed

• Develop working knowledge of MMNA systems, acronyms, and processes
• Perform core Inventory Planner functions independently
• Resolve customer backorders for assigned parts
• Issue purchase orders and approve recommended purchases
• Review and edit demand forecasts
• Achieve MMNA Blue Yonder Certification Levels 1 and 2
• Manage day-to-day parts supply activities
• Understand and utilize available reports to support inventory decisions

Year 1 - Victory Lap

• Demonstrate full proficiency in MMNA inventory planning and supply chain functions
• Independently manage an assigned deck of parts
• Actively contribute to team discussions and continuous improvement initiatives
• Achieve defined KPIs related to service, inventory health, and cost
• Serve as a capable backup and knowledge resource within the team

Ready to Join the Team? You Should Have:

• 3+ years of experience in a distribution environment involved in a forecasting/procurement capacity.
• Experience working in manufacturing, distribution, or parts supply environments.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and translate insights into actionable plans.
• Previous experience with demand planning software packages (Blue Yonder preferred).
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools for analysis and reporting
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Strong communication and collaboration skills for cross-functional work

Extra Horsepower(Profile Differentiators):

• BA/BS degree in Business Administration/Statistics or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated history of improving processes and reducing inefficiencies
• Ability to step into ambiguity and create clarity or structure
• Track record of exceeding role expectations to deliver measurable results
• Experience using Microsoft 365 tools to develop scalable, data-driven solutions

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to develop a broad and highly transferable supply chain skill set
• Visibility into how your work directly impacts company performance and customer satisfaction
• Collaborative culture that promotes strong relationships, teamwork, and continuous learning

Pay Transparency:

The base salary for this position ranges between $60,000 to $75,000. The base salary will be based on a number of factors including the role offered, the individual's job-related knowledge, skills, and qualifications. In addition to base salary, we are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package for all eligible employees which also includes 401k with company match, Mitsubishi Lease Program, and a full range of medical, financial, and other perks and benefits.

Perks and Benefits:

• Family First: Enjoy comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Be a Proud Mitsubishi Ambassador: Take advantage of our Discounted Employee Lease Car program, covering insurance, maintenance, and registration fees, with no down payment or credit check required.
• Secure Your Future: Benefit from our 401(k) with Company match and annual contributions based on years of service.
• Fuel Your Growth: Access professional development opportunities, including training, tuition reimbursement, and employee resource groups.
• Take Time for Yourself: Enjoy up to 30 days of paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and other leave options.
• Hybrid Working Environment: Experience the perfect balance of remote and in-office work (~2 days remote, 3 days in-office) at our modern office, located in the vibrant Franklin, TN area.
• Thrive in an Open Environment: Experience our collaborative workspace where ideas flow freely.