Lead, Inventory Process Optimization

Position Title: Lead Inventory Associate, Process Optimization

Reports to: Inventory Manager

Department: Administration

Location: Causeway Center

Classification: On-site

Core Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Status: Hourly

Range: $42,700 - $44,030

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Feeding Tampa Bay serves ten counties in West Central Florida and is a leader in hunger relief across our region. Just last year, we served 85M meals to our neighbors through direct service and through our network of 400+ food pantry partners. 

But, we know food alone won’t solve hunger — that’s why we’re redefining what it means to feed our region. By creating pathways to possibilities for nearly 1 million people, Feeding Tampa Bay connects and convenes solutions, partners and resources that nourish long-term stability. As a member of the Feeding America network, we will work to dismantle barriers for individuals, families, and seniors across our area — because it’s possible.

SUMMARY

The Lead Inventory Associate, Process Optimization, is a crucial role responsible for the design, execution, and continuous improvement of all inventory control procedures within our fast-paced food distribution and logistics environment. This position involves supervisory responsibilities, acting as the primary expert and trainer for inventory best practices, and driving process changes to maximize food safety, accuracy, and operational efficiency.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Exemplifies the desired culture and philosophies of Feeding Tampa Bay
• Develop and Optimize Procedures: Design, document, and implement standardized inventory control processes, including receiving, put-away, slotting, picking, shipping, and inter-facility transfers, ensuring alignment with Feeding America and regulatory food safety guidelines (FIFO/FEFO).
• System Integrity: Serve as the subject matter expert for the Warehouse Management System (WMS) and other inventory tracking software, focusing on data accuracy, efficient transaction processing, and system optimization.
• Discrepancy Resolution: Lead investigations into all inventory discrepancies, conducting root cause analysis, and implementing preventative and corrective actions to maintain a high level of inventory accuracy.
• Reporting: Assist in generation and analyzation of inventory reports to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such for accuracy, turnover, product spoilage, and storage capacity, providing actionable insights to management.
• Training & Mentorship: Lead the training program for inventory associates on new and existing inventory processes, proper use of WMS/RF scanners, and equipment operations 
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Operations, Procurement, and Programs teams to forecast demand, manage product flow, and address inventory needs for various distribution channels (e.g., Mobile Pantries, The Market, partner agencies).
• Physical Inventory/Cycle Counts: Coordinate and actively participate in regular physical inventory counts and cycle count programs, ensuring minimal operational disruption and maximum accuracy.
• Quality & Audits: Monitor product quality, inspect incoming and stored inventory for damage or expiration, and ensure proper storage conditions, especially for temperature-sensitive goods.
• Audit Readiness: Ensure the warehouse and all inventory processes are in perpetual readiness for internal and external food safety and financial audits. 
• Assist in ensuring policy and procedures manuals for Inventory Department are updated and accurate
• This position is regularly required to stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Excel working in a fast-paced, evolving environment and demonstrate the ability to embrace the FTB’s commitment to treat all people with equity and respect in pursuit of our mission to feed people in need and mobilize our community to eliminate hunger
• Experience: 3+ years of experience in inventory control, warehousing, or logistics, with a proven focus on process improvement and system management.
• WMS Expertise: Proficiency with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and RF scanning technology.
• Leadership: Demonstrated leadership and training ability with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical Skills: High level of attention to detail and strong analytical/problem-solving skills, with the ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement solutions.
• Physical Ability: Ability to perform the physical requirements of a warehouse role, including frequent lifting, standing, and operating powered industrial equipment (certification preferred).
• Willing to actively participate in mission-driven programs, such as food distribution initiatives and disaster relief operations as needed.
• All internal candidates must be in good standing with no corrective actions within the last 90 days.