Ridgeline Bike & Ski - Ridgeline Bike and Ski Inventory/Materials Manager

The Sales Inventory Specialist at Ridgeline Bike & Ski oversees all retail inventory functions, including reordering, pricing, and compliance with sales strategies. Using tools like Light Speed and Excel, this role ensures inventory accuracy, analyzes product performance, and recommends adjustments to optimize sales. Responsibilities include managing the inventory budget, resolving purchase order and shipment issues, and developing creative strategies to move underperforming stock. Collaborating with the Sales Manager and Merchandiser, the Specialist ensures promoted items are in stock and aligns inventory with overall business goals. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and proficiency in inventory tools are essential.

Position Overview:The Ridgeline Sales Inventory Specialist is responsible for overseeing all retail inventory functions to support and enhance the success of Ridgeline Bike & Ski. This role is essential in maintaining accurate inventory levels, ensuring compliance with pricing policies, and supporting the overall sales and merchandising strategies of the business. Reporting directly to the Sales Manager, the Sales Inventory Specialist plays a critical role in optimizing inventory turns, managing budgets, and driving profitability through efficient inventory management practices.Key Responsibilities:Inventory Management:Investigate and qualify product reorders, ensuring alignment with sales strategies and obtaining Sales Manager approval.Utilize tools such as Light Speed and Excel to manage inventory data and generate reports.Maintain up-to-date and accurate inventory counts on the sales floor and in the system.Receive, inspect, and process incoming shipments promptly and accurately.Adjust website pricing and in-store labels to reflect current sales strategies, promotions, and pricing policies.Data Analysis & Reporting:Own and monitor inventory turns reports, analyze sales performance, and identify underperforming products.Recommend discontinuation of products with poor sales performance.Collaborate with the Sales Manager and Merchandiser to implement strategies for improving inventory turnover.Budget & Compliance:Manage the retail inventory budget, including forecasting, pricing, and discounting strategies.Work with the Bookkeeper to confirm budget availability for purchase orders.Generate and process purchase orders with Sales Manager approval.Ensure compliance with MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) policies and pricing strategies.Sales Support:Ensure that high-priority and promoted items are in stock and available for sale.Develop creative strategies to move inventory that is not meeting sales expectations.Collaborate with the sales team to identify trends, improve product placement, and enhance customer satisfaction.Problem Resolution:Identify and resolve issues related to purchase orders, shipping labels, and vendor errors.Maintain clear communication with vendors and the internal team to address discrepancies.Qualifications:Proven experience in inventory management or a related role, preferably in a retail environment.Proficiency in inventory management software (e.g., Light Speed) and Excel.Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with team members, vendors, and stakeholders.Knowledge of sales strategies, merchandising, and pricing compliance (including MAP policies).Budget management experience is a plus.Key Competencies:Accountability: Takes ownership of inventory performance and its impact on profitability.Problem Solving: Proactively identifies and resolves issues related to inventory and vendor relationships.Organization: Effectively manages multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.Communication: Maintains clear and professional communication with internal and external stakeholders.