Inventory Planner

The Inventory Planner plays a vital role in ensuring the right parts are available at the right time while balancing inventory cost, service level, and operational efficiency. This position supports Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) parts supply operations by managing demand, inventory levels, and supplier coordination across a complex manufacturing and distribution network.

Due to the complexities of MMNA systems—including Blue Yonder and Royal 4—this role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.

This role is a hybrid role with in office expectations of 2-3 days a week. 

The Inventory Planner is responsible for optimizing inventory levels to support customer demand, improving forecast accuracy, enhancing inventory visibility, and reducing overall inventory costs. This role collaborates closely with suppliers, manufacturing partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth material flow and timely issue resolution.

Key focus areas include inventory planning, demand forecasting, safety stock management, process improvement, and KPI monitoring. The Inventory Planner uses data and reporting tools to drive informed decision-making, improve operational performance, and contribute to continuous improvement across MMNA’s supply chain.

• Maintain optimal inventory levels to meet demand while avoiding overstock or stockouts
• Balance supply and demand to minimize cost and maximize efficiency
• Establish and manage safety stock levels to ensure uninterrupted supply

• Review, edit, and improve demand forecasts to align inventory with customer needs
• Improve forecast accuracy to prevent excess inventory and customer backorders

• Enhance visibility into inventory levels, locations, and movements across systems
• Identify and implement strategies to reduce carrying costs, increase inventory turnover, and minimize waste

• Develop, streamline, and document inventory management processes
• Identify opportunities to automate routine tasks and improve workflow efficiency

• Collaborate with suppliers, manufacturers, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth inventory flow
• Proactively address and resolve supply chain issues impacting service levels

• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators, including:
• Months of supply
• Order fulfillment and backorder resolution
• Forecast accuracy
• Use data insights to support decision-making and drive continuous improvement
• Other duties as assigned or required.

First 90 Days - Getting Up to Speed

• Develop working knowledge of MMNA systems, acronyms, and processes
• Perform core Inventory Planner functions independently
• Resolve customer backorders for assigned parts
• Issue purchase orders and approve recommended purchases
• Review and edit demand forecasts
• Achieve MMNA Blue Yonder Certification Levels 1 and 2
• Manage day-to-day parts supply activities
• Understand and utilize available reports to support inventory decisions

Year 1 - Victory Lap

• Demonstrate full proficiency in MMNA inventory planning and supply chain functions
• Independently manage an assigned deck of parts
• Actively contribute to team discussions and continuous improvement initiatives
• Achieve defined KPIs related to service, inventory health, and cost
• Serve as a capable backup and knowledge resource within the team

• 3+ years of experience in a distribution environment involved in a forecasting/procurement capacity.
• Experience working in manufacturing, distribution, or parts supply environments.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and translate insights into actionable plans.
• Previous experience with demand planning software packages (Blue Yonder preferred).
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools for analysis and reporting
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Strong communication and collaboration skills for cross-functional work

• BA/BS degree in Business Administration/Statistics or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated history of improving processes and reducing inefficiencies
• Ability to step into ambiguity and create clarity or structure
• Track record of exceeding role expectations to deliver measurable results
• Experience using Microsoft 365 tools to develop scalable, data-driven solutions

The base salary for this position ranges between $60,000 to $75,000. The base salary will be based on a number of factors including the role offered, the individual's job-related knowledge, skills, and qualifications. In addition to base salary, we are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package for all eligible employees which also includes 401k with company match, Mitsubishi Lease Program, and a full range of medical, financial, and other perks and benefits.

Our values form the foundation of everything we do. At Mitsubishi Motors, we are committed to a set of core principles that guide our actions, decisions, and interactions. Our values reflect who we are as a company, how we collaborate, and the impact we aspire to make. These values are what we call the MMC Way:

• Think of Our Customers, Strengthen Trust
• Enrich Society
• Welcome All Facts, Share Difficult News First
• Conduct and Challenge Yourself Professionally
• Respect All, Work as a Broader Team

At MMNA, we embrace the strength that diverse perspectives and experiences bring to our team. Our application process is designed to champion inclusion and equity. We're on the lookout for the ideal fit for each role, valuing skills and experiences over traditional education or specific company backgrounds. Feel encouraged to apply, even if your profile doesn't precisely match the job description. We invite you to delve into a few thought-provoking questions in our application, offering you the opportunity to showcase your unique talents and insights right from the start.

Once you've submitted your application, expect to hear from us within 7 business days. We're committed to keeping you informed about the status of your application, ensuring transparency and open communication throughout the process. We understand that perfection is a journey, and if you ever have questions about your application or the process itself, don't hesitate to reach out to your recruiter. 

Mitsubishi Motors is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer, excited about collaborating with talented individuals of all identities. We do not discriminate based on identity, aligning with our commitment to fostering a diverse workplace. Our code of conduct serves as a guiding light for the company we aspire to be, celebrating our differences as the driving force behind a product that serves a global user base. 

We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and is prepared to provide reasonable accommodations. If you require such accommodations for the job application or interview process, please email mmna-talent_acquisition@na.mitsubishi-motors.com.

We hope you will join us on this journey where your dedication aligns with our values, creating an environment that fosters growth, collaboration, and meaningful contributions.