Accounting Manager, Inventory

This role requires strong expertise in retail inventory management, standard costing, and audit readiness, along with the ability to operate independently and solve complex issues in a fast-paced environment.

Pls note this is a FTC for 12 months

Inventory Management

·   Manage end-to-end inventory processes across DTC and wholesale channels.

·   Ensure accurate recording, valuation, and reconciliation of inventory balances.

·   Maintain strong controls over inventory movements, adjustments, and reserves, including NRV and obsolescence.

·   Partner with FP&A, Supply Chain, and the Reporting Team to ensure alignment on inventory strategy.

Standard Costing & PPV

·   Manage standard costing processes, including cost updates and variance analysis.

·   Analyse Purchase Price Variance (PPV) and identify drivers impacting margin.

·   Collaborate with Procurement and FP&A to ensure accurate cost planning and reporting.

Forecasting & Planning

·   Support inventory forecasting processes, including freight, PPV, duties, and balance sheet items.

·   Provide insights into inventory risks and opportunities based on trends and actuals.

·   Partner with FP&A teams to align inventory projections with financial forecasts.

Month-End Close

·   Facilitate inventory-related month-end close activities, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.

·   Prepare journal entries, reconciliations, and variance analysis.

·   Ensure compliance with internal controls and accounting policies.

Reporting & Analysis

·   Prepare and deliver high-quality inventory reports for management and stakeholders.

·   Analyse inventory performance and provide actionable insights.

·   Develop and enhance reporting tools to improve visibility and decision-making.

Audit & Compliance

·   Act as key point of contact for internal and external auditors, including SOX and EY.

·   Ensure all inventory processes are audit-ready, with clear documentation and controls.

·   Support audit requests and drive timely resolution of findings.

Experience & Knowledge

·   Strong experience in inventory management within a retail environment.

·   In-depth knowledge of standard costing, PPV, and inventory valuation methodologies.

·   Proven experience in forecasting and inventory planning processes.

·   Strong understanding of month-end close and financial reporting requirements.

·   Experience working within audit frameworks, including SOX, Internal Audit, and external auditors.

Skills & Competencies

·   Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently.

·   Detail-oriented approach with a focus on accuracy and control.

·   Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

·   Proficiency in ERP systems, including SAP S/4HANA or ECC, and advanced Excel.

Personal Attributes

·   Self-starter with a proactive mindset.

·   Strong ownership and accountability.

·   Ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.

·   Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on process optimisation.

Preferred Qualifications

·   Professional qualification such as ACCA, CIMA, CPA, or equivalent.

·   Experience in a multinational retail or consumer goods environment.