Automotive Accessory Development Manager Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

SUMMARY

Leads a team of Inventory Planners and works across multiple areas of the organization to ensure appropriate accessory inventory investment and flow at each of Subaru of America's (SOA's) Regional Distribution Centers (RDCs) and port facilities. Uses core planning concepts to manage system and process development in support of accessory sales goals, customer experience, inventory management, and SOA profitability targets. Provides accessory planning and inventory support for SOA Regions, independent distributors, and the SOA Export Operations team.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leads and mentors a team of Inventory Planners for operational performance, personal development, and career growth.

• Serves as the primary liaison and subject matter expert between various stakeholders on accessory inventory issues, including Sales Operations, Accessory Development, Sales & Sourcing, Transportation, Information Technology (IT), Accounting, and the accessory supplier base.
• Acts as the primary interface to Sales Operations to maximize port accessory sales via proactive inventory management, including allocation limits, management of disallowed accessories, and coordination with the vehicle allocation team through the allocation process to effectively utilize available labor and maximize accessory revenue per new vehicle wholesaled (PNVW).
• Develops lean processes, policies, and systems to ensure appropriate inventory and effective communication in support of port operations and warehouse sales.
• Tracks service levels, backorders, and key metrics and manages inventory supply and allocation between locations to support port and retailer sales.
• Monitors and communicates with suppliers to ensure the ability to fulfill inventory requirements, including working to ensure early detection of supply challenges and developing appropriate countermeasures. Participates in supplier improvement actions including resolving disruptions related to quality issues, vendor processes, or location changes; supersessions; or any issue that could affect accessory sales. Leads those improvement actions when necessary.
• Acts as subject matter expert (SME) on operational systems and internal controls, including lean inventory best practices, the Kinaxis planning system, and Oracle Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
• Works closely with Accounting to ensure inventory integrity and that appropriate warehousing standards are adhered to.

• Acts as primary manager of new model inventory launch activities, including supply and inventory planning, monitoring Accessory Business Development Plans and Project Status Reports, communicating proactively with Sourcing and Engineering to ensure sufficient accessory inventory levels, forecast communication to suppliers, and system preparation to meet new model launch requirements while balancing non-carryover inventory. Following the launch of new vehicle models and model changes: Assumes full responsibility for proactive management of all vendor-related supply issues. Provides suppliers with annual and initial orders forecasts. Creates and verifies vendor receipt of timely purchase orders, creates of Bill of Materials, and manages the receipt and/or transfer of inventory into appropriate Regional Distribution Center (RDC) locations to maximize port and retailer sales.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• OverseeWorks with IT and various business units to develop reporting and system tools to drive efficiency and collaboration.

• Conducts daily review of high-priority or assigned stock keeping units (SKUs) in support of active issue management and backorder reduction.

REQUIRED SKILLS & PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Clear understanding of the order-to-fulfillment cycle and basic supply chain strategies and tactics.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills enabling communication across all levels of the organization, from the executive team to warehouse associates.

• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with time-sensitive tasks.

• Ability to collaborate extensively with numerous cross-functional departments.

• Out-of-the box thinking style for continuous process improvements.

• Ability to effectively multi-task.

• Knowledge of production manufacturing and port operations.

• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office and parts planning system experience - Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Kinaxis, Oracle, BlueYonder, Xelus or similar.

• Excellent project and vendor management skills

• APICS Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) Certification , Upon Hire Preferred And

• APICS Certified in Supply Chain Certification (CSCP) Certification, Upon Hire Preferred

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree required with Master's Degree Master's in Business Administration (MBA) preferred.  At least 6-8 years' experience in all aspects of forecasting, planning, accessory sales, and/or distribution required.

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Office Location: Camden, NJ apart of the Greater Philadelphia Area (Philly)

• Hybrid Role: Hybrid Role - Remote work 2 days per week (after 90 days) [Wednesdays & Fridays]

• Required Travel: Up to 20% Domestic

COMPENSATION: The recruiting base salary range for this full-time position is $95,000 - $130,000 / year. Within the range, individual pay is determined by factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Additionally, this role is bonus-eligible, with a target bonus percentage that provides an opportunity to earn even more based on your performance. (Internal Job Grade: M1) 

WHY JOIN US? In addition to competitive salary, Subaru offers an amazing benefits package that includes:

   Total Rewards & Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Plans

• Pension, Profit Sharing, and 401K Match Offerings

• 15 Vacation days, 5 Floating Holidays, 5 Sick days, and 9 Company Holidays

• Tuition Reimbursement Program: $15,000 yearly benefit

• Vehicle Discount Programs

   Learning & Development:

• Professional growth and development opportunities

• Direct partnership with senior leadership

• Formal Mentorship Program

• LinkedIn Learning License 

   Visit our careers landing page for additional information about our compensation and benefit programs.

ABOUT SUBARU

Love. It's what makes Subaru, Subaru. As a leading auto brand in the US, we strive to be More Than a Car Company. Subaru believes in being a positive force in the communities in which we live and work, not just with donations but with actions that set an example for others to follow. That's what we call our Subaru Love Promise.

Subaru is a globally renowned automobile manufacturer known for its commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability. With a rich history dating back to 1953, Subaru has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering to deliver vehicles that offer not only exceptional performance but also a unique blend of utility and adventure.

Subaru's company culture is built on collaboration, diversity, and a shared passion for our product. We foster an inclusive environment that encourages employees to bring their unique perspectives and talents to the table. Our team members are driven by a common goal: to create exceptional vehicles that inspire and delight our customers.