Inventory Management Support Associate
About the Role
The Inventory Operations Support Associate serves as a key business partner supporting inventory management processes, systems, reporting, and operational execution across Macy's. As a subject matter expert in replenishment and inventory systems, this role provides operational support and guidance to approximately 60 users responsible for managing inventory flow across Macy's stores and Macys.com fulfillment centers.
This position works closely with Inventory Management, Integrated Planning, Macy's Technology, Data Science, Merchandising, and Supply Chain partners to drive system optimization, improve inventory productivity, and enhance forecast and replenishment accuracy. The Associate plays a critical role in identifying opportunities to streamline processes, improve user adoption, and ensure inventory management tools and reporting support evolving business needs.
The Inventory Operations Support Associate will represent business users in technology enhancements, process improvements, and strategic initiatives related to Blue Yonder Demand & Fulfillment and other inventory management platforms. This role combines analytical expertise, technical aptitude, operational support, and cross-functional partnership to improve efficiency, scalability, and business outcomes.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary support resource for inventory management users by troubleshooting system issues, answering process questions, and driving resolution of business and system challenges.
- Ensure the timely delivery, accuracy, and continuous improvement of recurring reports, dashboards, automated processes, and business intelligence tools.
- Develop ad hoc analyses, reporting, and data-driven insights to support replenishment strategies, operational decision-making, and enterprise initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to optimize inventory management system functionality, business processes, and user workflows to improve operational efficiency and inventory performance.
- Partner with Inventory Management leaders, Integrated Planning teams, Macy's Technology, and Data Science partners to define business requirements and implement system enhancements.
- Create and maintain tools, automation solutions, and reporting capabilities that reduce manual effort and improve team productivity.
- Monitor business processes and system performance, proactively identifying risks, gaps, and opportunities for improvement.
- Support user testing, implementation activities, training, and change management initiatives related to system enhancements and technology upgrades.
- Represent business stakeholders in roadmap discussions, helping prioritize enhancements that improve replenishment effectiveness, forecasting accuracy, and overall user experience.
- Work closely with Technology teams to document, prioritize, and resolve system defects while ensuring clear communication with impacted business partners.
- Develop and maintain process documentation, best practices, and training materials that improve consistency and knowledge sharing across the organization.
Requirements
- 4+ years of related experience.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field (Business, Supply Chain, Information Systems, Analytics, or similar).
- This role involves performing essential job functions such as communication, collaboration, and use of office and computer systems.
- Able to work a flexible schedule based on department and company needs.
Skills
Data Analysis & Business Intelligence
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into actionable business insights.
- Experience querying and analyzing large datasets using SQL preferred.
- Experience developing reports, dashboards, and visualizations using Tableau, Power BI, or similar business intelligence tools.
Inventory & Systems Optimization
- Understanding of inventory management, replenishment, allocation, forecasting, or supply chain processes.
- Ability to identify process improvement opportunities and leverage technology to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
- Experience supporting enterprise applications and partnering with technology teams on enhancements and issue resolution.
Technical & Automation Skills
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including complex formulas, PivotTables, Power Query, macros, and VBA.
- Experience developing automated solutions, workflows, and reporting tools that drive operational efficiencies.
Cross-Functional Partnership
- Proven ability to work effectively across organizational boundaries and build strong relationships with business and technology partners.
- Experience collaborating with Inventory Management, Merchandising, Planning, Supply Chain, Technology, and Analytics teams preferred.
Communication & Influence
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Ability to influence stakeholders, facilitate discussions, and drive alignment toward business objectives.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting inventory management, replenishment, forecasting, allocation, or supply chain systems.
- SQL experience preferred.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including VBA and process automation.
- Experience with Tableau, Power BI, or similar reporting and visualization platforms.
- Experience supporting Blue Yonder Demand & Fulfillment or similar retail planning and inventory management solutions.
Key Success Factors
- Customer-focused approach to supporting inventory management teams.
- Strong sense of ownership and accountability.
- Ability to identify opportunities and drive continuous improvement.
- Comfortable navigating ambiguity and adapting to changing business priorities.
- Demonstrates both strategic thinking and a bias for execution.
- Builds credibility through collaboration, influence, and results.
- Passion for leveraging systems, data, and technology to improve business outcomes.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and wellness coverage (medical, vision, dental, life, disability insurance).
- 401(k) match to invest in your future.
- Paid time off and eight paid holidays.
- Merchandise discounts.
- Performance-based incentives and annual merit review.
- Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- Access to Colleague Resource Groups and volunteer opportunities.