Director, Merchandising

The Director is responsible for overseeing the daily functions of the Inventory Replenishment teams for all SYGMA Distribution Centers and for assisting the VP with implementing strategic planning and goals. Senior Managers of Merchandising and Inventory Replenishment will report to the Director

Responsibilities:

• Direct the functions of the Merchandising Inventory team to meet plan objectives to include training, coaching and development of associates in the department. Responsible for CMP for direct reports.
• In conjunction with the VP, develop, implement and administer the company’s Inventory Control policies and procedures to ensure an effective and efficient supply chain that the growing demand of our customers.
• Through the Senior Managers of Merchandising, ensure proper and timely communication with Inventory Planners & Supervisors, Account Management and Distribution Centers.  Act as a back-up for Sr. Managers of Merchandising Inventory in their absence.
• Collaborate with the Director of Corporate Account Management to reach Departmental goals, such as- In-Stock Performance, Shrink, Obsolete, Inventory Days On-Hand and Merchandising Freight.
• Work with the VP/General Managers of all sites to ensure that the needs of our internal customers are being met and take actions necessary to make changes to reach or maintain that objective.
• Effectively coordinate Merchandising functions with other internal groups.  Serve as a point of escalation for site-related issues, such as emergency freight, Capacity, out of stock items, overstocks, withdrawal and/or QA issues.
• Assist Account Management in new business start-ups and/or off boarding of business.
• Work with logistics to build revenue through identifying potential backhauls and/or logistics opportunities. And minimize freight losses by communicating any reduction in supplier/customer freight costs
• Manage obsolete inventory for the Merchandising Inventory group. Develop strategies to minimize company losses & ensure resolution is reached before the sites take an obsolete hit.
• Pursue and administer cost reduction and quality improvement initiatives.
• Provide directions on appropriate handling of recall, withdrawal and QA issues. Work with SYSCO contacts, along with VP and Directors in the Department for recall/QA communications.
• Ensure proper training for Inventory Planners on inventory control processes and procedures and system enhancements as needed.
• Work with HR to incorporate on-going development & training opportunities for the Merchandising team.
• Ensure proper training for Inventory Planners on inventory control processes and procedures and system enhancements as needed.
• Work with HR to incorporate on-going development & training opportunities for the Merchandising team.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 8+ years of Merchandising experience within SYGMA/Sysco, including Inventory Management and/or Account Management, or equivalent experience in foodservice distribution, supply chain, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience managing team, with strong track record of coaching, mentoring, and developing high performing colleagues.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively both within the department and across Sales, Finance, Operations, Human Resources and with external customers.

Preferred:

• Degree in Supply Chain Management, General Business, Marketing, Merchandising or Retail Management or equivalent years of professional experience.
• Proven track record of  managing cross-functional teams to achieve Merchandising and business objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to present strategic recommendations to senior leadership.

Skills and Abilities:

• Trusted relationship builder
• Strong people leader with expertise in coaching, development, and conflict resolution
• AS400, Presto& DPR skilled

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Keen sense of urgency, prioritization and multitasking
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Adaptability in ambiguity
• Skilled in conflict resolution
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, Power Point Presentations

Other:

• Located at SYGMA Support Center – Dublin, OH
• After-Hours On-Call support required
• Occasional Travel