Job Description

Job Summary
The University of Utah Campus Store is seeking an Inventory Data Manager to oversee the collection, analysis, and management of inventory data. This role ensures precise tracking of item counts, locations, and product details to optimize inventory management and minimize costs. The Inventory Data Manager will identify trends and make informed decisions about procurement and inventory balances.
This role involves utilizing the Oracle NetSuite ERP, the Campus Store’s system of record, to ensure accurate tracking, efficient control, and timely restocking of items. The Inventory Data Manager will work closely with suppliers, store staff, and other departments to maintain optimal inventory levels and support the store’s overall operations.

Additionally, this role will be part of the Open to Buy process, ensuring budgeted inventory levels are maintained. The Inventory Data Manager will also be a key member of the Buying and Vendor Relations team, collaborating on purchasing decisions and fostering strong relationships with vendors. This position will manage the Data Entry team for the Campus Store, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the inventory records.

The University of Utah is the state’s public flagship institution and a top-tier research university. The University Campus Store is consistently ranked in the top 15 of institutionally run campus stores in the nation. We serve over 40,000 students, faculty, and staff, along with millions of visitors each year.
At the University of Utah Campus Store, we are dedicated to fostering a community that upholds the six core commitments outlined by President Taylor Randall and the Board of Trustees. These commitments are leadership, education, research, service, patient care, and unity with sister institutions. As an integral part of the University community, we embrace these commitments in our daily operations with students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Our goal is to not only provide excellent products and services but also to contribute to a campus culture that prioritizes the well-being and success of all members. Join us in embodying these commitments and making a positive impact at the University of Utah Campus Store.

In addition to salary, the University of Utah prides itself in our total benefit package, including but not limited to the following:
11 paid holidays per year
14.2% employer contribution to retirement, where you pay nothing.**
Free UTA public transportation pass
Basic Life Insurance provided up to $25,000.
50% tuition reduction for employee, spouse, after 6 – 12 months of employment and dependent children after 3 years of full-time employment
Health coverage options that are both affordable and allow for access to care through the University of Utah health system.
Paid parental leave (in addition to FMLA), if qualified
Professional development opportunities
Options for short-term and long-term disability insurance, supplemental life insurance, and HSA / FSA savings plans are available.
Employee discounts on a variety of products and services including cell phones & plans, entertainment, health and fitness, restaurants, retail, and travel.
**For the majority of employees, the University contributes an amount equal to 14.2% of pay to a 401(a) Retirement Plan. If you previously worked for the University and were enrolled in a Utah Retirement Systems (URS) retirement plan, Utah law requires that you be re-enrolled in the same URS plan upon rehire. If you were enrolled in a URS plan with another employer and wish to be enrolled during your University employment, you must complete the Irrevocable Election (online at https://benefits.utah.edu/retirement-plan-election/) before your first paycheck. Only employees who are residents of the United States and those holding H-1B Visas are eligible for retirement benefits.
Responsibilities
Inventory Management: Utilize NetSuite to track and manage inventory levels, ensuring accurate records of stock quantities, locations, and movements. Responsible for the accuracy and integrity of the product item file, including product details/descriptions, product features/facets, costs, initial product mark-up, freight costs, gross margin percent, and current retail prices.
Product Naming Conventions: Improve upon item naming conventions, matrix SKU’s, and ensuring UPC and Vendor SKU’s are accurate. Understanding the impact of these hierarchal structures and how they translate to the sales teams of both instore and website. Ensure consistent product naming conventions throughout the company to maintain clarity and organization.
Stock Replenishment: Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with suppliers to reorder products as needed, avoiding stockouts and overstock situations. Work in tandem with buyers to manage all core product replenishment orders and reorders.
Data Analysis: Analyze inventory data to identify trends, forecast demand, and make informed decisions about stock levels and purchasing. Use historical sales data to keep product inventory thresholds and reorder points up to date.
Resolve Errors: Work with the receiving and accounting teams to resolve data and transactional errors.
Loss Prevention: Implement and monitor protocols to minimize inventory shrinkage and loss, conducting regular audits and investigations as necessary. Oversee cycle counts and inventory adjustments.
Reporting: Generate and present inventory reports to store management, providing insights and ensuring the efficient flow of inventory.
Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and improve inventory management processes, leveraging NetSuite’s capabilities to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
Demand Forecasting: Analyze historical sales data, market trends, and seasonal patterns to predict future product demand.
Inventory Monitoring: Regularly track stock levels to identify potential shortages or overstock situations, ensuring timely replenishment or reduction of inventory as needed.
Order Management: Place orders with suppliers to replenish inventory, considering lead times and optimal order quantities to maintain efficient stock levels.
Inventory Optimization: Implement strategies to reduce excess stock and minimize stockouts, thereby improving inventory turnover rates.
Performance Reporting: Generate and analyze reports on key inventory metrics, such as stock turnover, fill rates, and stockouts, to inform decision-making.
Inter-store Stock Balancing: Manage stock levels across multiple store locations to ensure balanced inventory.

This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
Minimum Qualifications
Requires a bachelor’s degree in a related area or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) and 2-4 years of experience in the field or in a related area.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferences
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in inventory management, preferably in a retail or campus store environment.
Proficiency in NetSuite or similar inventory management software.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with team members and suppliers.
Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide staff.
Knowledge of retail merchandising and strategies.