Purchasing & Inventory Manager

**Overview**

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Purchasing Inventory Manager to oversee the production of restaurant and retail packaging. This role involves ensuring that packaging is manufactured to the highest quality standards and delivered within the specified timelines. The Purchasing Inventory Manager will manage the entire production process from the moment a client purchase order (PO) is received until the packaging is completed and shipped. This includes coordinating production with multiple factories overseas, handling logistics, and shipment tracking.

**Key Responsibilities**

**Order Processing**:

- Receive and review purchase orders (POs) and other related documents to confirm details and requirements.
- Communicate order details and timelines to production teams at various factories.

**Pre-production Coordination**:

- Coordinate pre-production samples and ensure approvals have taken place at key benchmarks during the project.
- Perform research on manufacturing facilities and innovations considering elements such as form, functionality, fabrication, and materials.

**Production Management**:

- Coordinate and manage the production process for takeaway packaging at multiple overseas factories.
- Ensure that all products meet the highest quality standards and comply with brand specifications.
- Monitor production schedules to ensure timely completion and delivery.
- Find ways of reducing friction points in the production process while shortening timelines and reducing costs.

**Quality Control**:

- Manage Quality Assurance partners.
- Implement and maintain quality control procedures to ensure consistency and quality across all production batches.
- Conduct regular inspections and audits of products and production facilities to ensure compliance with quality standards.
- Confirm sizing, materials, and overall quality at key benchmarks during the production process.

**Logistics and Shipment Management**:

- Coordinate with logistics providers to arrange the shipment of completed orders.
- Track and manage shipments to ensure timely delivery to clients.
- Handle any issues or delays in the shipping process and provide timely updates to stakeholders.
- Review all shipment documents and confirm details.

**Inventory and Purchasing**:

- Liaise with 3PL warehouse partners to build plans and ensure inventory levels are managed efficiently.
- Build purchasing plans to support Sway distribution partners as well as Sway clientele.
- Develop a robust understanding of Sway products and implement inventory management practices for the company.

**Communication and Collaboration**:

- Liaise with overseas vendors regarding orders and delivery issues.
- Track orders and coordinate with importing/logistics departments.
- Maintain clear and consistent communication with factory managers, suppliers, and logistics providers.
- Collaborate with internal teams, including procurement, sales, and customer service, to ensure smooth workflow and address any issues promptly.
- Meet with internal team members regularly (including daily scrums and weekly reporting sessions) to keep the team apprised of project progress and potential road blocks.

**Documentation and Reporting**:

- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all production activities, including POs, production schedules, quality control reports, and shipment details.
- Assist in the preparation of product catalogs for seasonal presentations.
- Provide regular reports to management on production status, quality issues, and shipment progress.

**Required Skills and Experience**
- Fluency in spoken and written English
- University or College degree in Supply Chain Management, Production Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 3-5 years of experience in production or logistics management.
- Proven experience in production coordination, preferably in the packaging or manufacturing industry.
- Strong understanding of quality control principles and production processes.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
- Action-oriented and outcome-focused, with critical thinking skills to analyze and visualize, ensuring continuous improvement across the business.
- Ability to succeed with mínimal supervision where priorities may shift due to changing business needs.

**Desired Behaviors**

**Builds Trust and Credibility**:
Consistently adheres to the organization’s business principles and values. Is seen as direct, truthful, and trustworthy by co-workers, vendors, and customers.

**Committed to Results**:
Takes personal responsibility for achieving mutually agreed upon individual/team objectives.

**Customer Service Orientation**:
Demonstrates a desire to help and serve internal/external customers to meet thei