ANALYST, VENDOR MANAGEMENT INVENTORY

For more than 115 years, Ferrara has created sugar confections that enable moments of sweetness, celebration, and connection for candy lovers of all generations. Today, the company is the #1 sugar confectioner in the United States. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of nearly 9,000 employees creating and delivering hundreds of products sold under 20 popular brands like Brach’s, NERDS, SweeTARTS, Laffy Taffy, and Trolli to more than 66 million U.S. households annually and popular Dori snacking products under brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100 in Brazil. Additionally, Jelly Belly, known world-wide for its confections, was acquired in November of 2023. Job Location: Chicago This role is based out of our corporate HQ located in downtown Chicago and will be a hybrid in-person/remote role. Want to make an impact? Reporting to the Manager of Vendor Management Inventory, the VMI Analyst will analyze key data to perform buying functions for customers to meet inventory and service target goals in addition to managing orders in SAP. This position will work closely with the VMI Manager and cross-functionally with our Supply Chain, Sales Teams, and Customers to ensure best practice procedures are in place to drive improved processes and efficiencies. Ways you will make a difference Manage trading partner inventory at item/DC level using designated software tool Handle complexity driven by the seasonal and promotional nature of the business Monitor, analyze and optimize inventory levels Perform daily data integrity, master database, and routine audits using designated software tool Own all aspects of managing customer forecasts, researching volatility and performing root cause analysis Analyze customer historical ordering patterns and understand trends to maintain accurate buying forecasts Validate promotional buy requests and analyze activity to maintain optimal inventory levels Maintain exceptional partnership with customers to ensure requirements are understood and expectations are met Collaborate with Sales Teams to ensure new and promotional items are ordered and delivered on time Maintain targeted customer inventory and truckload optimization requirements Generate replenishment, promotional and seasonal orders as required to meet service expectations Perform order management requirements to ensure on time delivery and optimal fill rates using SAP Work cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Sales, Transportation and Distribution teams to achieve optimal service Oversee customer inventories, monitor customer inventory levels, and analyze promotional activity affects to avoid obsolescence Collaborate with Transportation and customers to resolve product refusals and returns Prepare and execute various performance reports using both SAP and the designated software tool Safeguard the confidentiality of company information Ensure adherence to all company policies and procedures Understand and demonstrate the Company’s core values Perform other duties as assigned Skills that will make you successful Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills Good understanding of business process flow related to retail replenishment Ability to multi-task and work well under strict deadlines Strong verbal, written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills Experiences that will support your success Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience Minimum of 2 years of VMI Analyst, Demand Planner, Replenishment Analyst, CPFR Analyst, or related field experience Experience working with Demand Planning applications and/or VMI software preferred Experience with other supply chain software packages (IBM/CRP) Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite Ability to travel What We Offer At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Compensation The salary range for this position is $60,675 to $84,945 annually. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to any protected characteristic. #J-18808-Ljbffr