Inventory Officer

Role Overview

You will take ownership of day-to-day inventory accuracy across multiple sites, from factory stores to coconut collection centres, ensuring every item—packaging, finished goods, and raw coconuts—is tracked and accounted for. Working closely with the Senior Accountant, you will lead stock checks, resolve discrepancies, and supervise warehouse assistants. This role is critical because any gap in inventory control directly impacts production planning, cost management, and the company’s ability to meet supply obligations in the Lamu region.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out scheduled and ad‑hoc physical counts of all inventory categories, then compare results against system records and investigate any mismatches until they are corrected.
• Plan the layout and storage of packaging materials and finished goods to maximise space and ensure fast, safe access for the warehouse team.
• Oversee the separate inventory of coconuts held at multiple collection centres, reconciling inbound and outbound volumes and reporting variances to management.
• Direct the day‑to‑day work of warehouse assistants, coaching them on proper stock handling, rotation, and documentation habits.
• Maintain up‑to‑date bin cards and ensure all movement paperwork—receipts, transfers, returns—is completed and filed according to company procedures.
• Flag slow‑moving, damaged, or expired stock with the inventory manager so that write‑offs or discounts can be processed without delay.
• Review reorder levels for packaging and production inputs, adjusting based on usage trends and upcoming demand to avoid both shortages and excess inventory.
• Enforce safety protocols and standard operating procedures across all storage areas, and conduct periodic checks to confirm compliance.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Commerce, Accounting, or a CPA finalist qualification.
• At least two years of hands‑on experience in inventory management or a general accounting role where stock reconciliation was a primary duty.
• Solid understanding of inventory control principles—cycle counting, FIFO/FEFO, variance analysis—and how they apply in a multi‑location environment.
• Proficiency with an ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar) and advanced skills in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Strong organisational and analytical ability, with a track record of making logical decisions under pressure.
• Proven ability to supervise a small team, delegate tasks, and maintain workflow discipline.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for liaising with suppliers, centre managers, and the finance team.
• Must be resident in Lamu or willing to relocate there, and have prior work experience in the same area.