Manager, Inventory Planning

Job Title: Manager, Inventory Planning Location: 📍 New York City | Hybrid 4 Days On-Site Salary: $110,000 - $130,000 Contact: alley.williams@forsythbarnes.com This position is not available for C2C or C2H and the client is unable to sponsor at this time. About the Role We’re looking for an analytics-driven Inventory Planning Manager to own and evolve inventory strategy for a portfolio of high-growth digital luxury brands. This role is ideal for someone who began their career in data analytics, business intelligence, or quantitative planning and has since specialized in inventory, supply planning, or operations strategy. You’ll sit at the intersection of data, technology, and supply chain execution, using advanced analytics, BI tools, and AI-driven planning systems to optimize SKU availability, working capital, and customer experience at scale. What You’ll Do As the Inventory Planning Manager, you will lead inventory strategy using a deeply analytical approach: Design and own inventory models that balance service levels, margin targets, and working capital efficiency Use Tableau, SQL, and BI tools to monitor inventory health, identify trends, and surface actionable insights Analyze and optimize the mix of Asset vs. Just-in-Time SKUs using data-driven decision frameworks Build and maintain demand-to-supply models that translate forecasts into executable fulfillment and replenishment plans Partner with Merchandising, Finance, Fulfillment, and Manufacturing to align inventory decisions with business strategy Leverage AI- and ML-enabled planning platforms (e.g., Blue Yonder, Kinaxis) to improve forecast accuracy and inventory responsiveness Establish data-backed standards for SKU classification, safety stock, and days-on-hand targets Support omnichannel inventory planning across e-commerce, warehouses, and physical locations Lead performance analysis across KPIs such as fill rate, inventory turns, stockouts, and excess inventory Conduct root-cause analysis on inventory variances and recommend corrective actions Support capacity planning and production readiness for new launches and seasonal demand spikes Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing lead times and increasing supply chain flexibility Partner on seasonal inventory planning, lifecycle management, and end-of-season markdown strategies Assess supply and demand risks and develop scenario-based contingency plans What We’re Looking For This role strongly favors candidates with analytical roots who enjoy working hands-on with data: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Industrial Engineering, Business Analytics, Data Science, or a related field 5+ years of experience in inventory planning, supply planning, or operations analytics, with at least 1 year in a leadership role Background in data analytics, BI, or quantitative roles before moving into inventory or supply chain is highly preferred Advanced proficiency in SQL and Excel Strong experience with Tableau, Power BI, or similar visualization tools Hands-on experience with AI/ML-driven planning systems such as Blue Yonder or Kinaxis (strongly preferred) Experience working with ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar) Proven ability to translate complex data into clear recommendations for cross-functional stakeholders Experience in luxury, premium retail, or CPG is a plus Familiarity with network optimization and multi-echelon inventory planning concepts Certifications (Bonus): APICS CPIM, CSCP, or CLTD Lean or Six Sigma Why This Role Data at the Core: This is not a “gut-feel” inventory role — decisions are driven by analytics, BI, and advanced planning systems Scale & Impact: Own inventory strategy for a $50M+ portfolio Technology-Forward: Work with AI-enabled forecasting and optimization tools Leadership Exposure: Partner closely with senior leaders across Merchandising, Finance, Manufacturing, and Operations Career Growth: Clear progression path to Senior Manager and Director roles Location: Hybrid role based in the heart of New York City