Manager, Inventory Programs

Work Location Type: Hybrid 

About Grainger

W.W. Grainger, Inc. is a leading broad line distributor with operations primarily in North America and Japan. At Grainger, We Keep the World Working® by serving more than 4.6 million customers worldwide with maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products and value-added solutions delivered through innovative technology and deep customer expertise. Known for its commitment to service and purpose-driven culture, the Company reported 2025 revenue of $17.9 billion. For more information, visit www.grainger.com.  

Compensation

The base salary for this role ranges between $103,760 - $142,670, with eligibility for an incentive target of 15% which is contingent upon achieving both individual and company performance objectives.

The pay range above is not a guarantee of compensation but reflects the potential total compensation for this role at the time of this posting based on the assigned job grade.  Actual compensation will vary depending on factors such as geographic work location, relevant experience and individual skills.  The stated range is a reasonable estimate and may change over time; final compensation may fall above or below the range provided.  Grainger reserves the right to amend, modify, or discontinue its compensation and benefits programs at any time, in accordance with applicable law.

This job posting is for an existing vacancy.

Position Details

The Manager, Inventory Programs leads a team of analysts responsible for optimizing inventory performance across Grainger Canada's distribution network, supporting over $200M in inventory investment. This role combines people leadership with hands-on planning ownership for select inventory programs, including seasonal, emergency, new and special instruction items. Through data-driven decision-making and cross-functional collaboration, the Manager drives improvements in product availability, inventory turns, space utilization, and forecast accuracy. The role plays a critical part in enabling service excellence while managing working capital effectively. The position is hybrid 3 days per week onsite at our Thornhill, ON office.

You Will

• Inventory Planning & Execution
• Own and manage inventory plans for assigned categories (e.g., new items, replacements, seasonal, emergency) and special instruction items to achieve target service levels, inventory turns, and optimal space utilization.
• Analyze inventory performance to identify trends, forecast drivers, and root causes impacting service and efficiency.
• Partner with Merchandising, Supplier Management, Operations, and Finance to align forecasts, promotions, and pre-buy strategies.
• Represent Inventory Planning on the Emergency Preparedness and Response Team (EPRC).
• Reporting & Analytics
• Develop and maintain standard and ad hoc reporting using SAP, SQL, and Power BI to support planning decisions and performance tracking.
• Communicate insights, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders and leadership through clear, data-driven storytelling.
• Process Improvement & Projects
• Lead and support key planning and purchasing initiatives (e.g., Bulk Buys, One-time investments, Annual Rebate Hunting).
• Drive initiatives to reduce excess and obsolete (E&O) inventory by leading network redeployments and managing GCAN-to-GUS returns to optimize inventory utilization and minimize write-offs.
• Identify and implement process improvements, including automation opportunities, to enhance efficiency, scalability, and consistency.
• People Leadership
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of analysts, fostering strong planning capabilities and continuous improvement.
• Provide guidance on tools, systems, and best practices to strengthen team performance and engagement.

You Have

• Bachelor's Degree Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Operations, Business, Finance, Analytics, or a related field. required
• 5+ years 4 years + Inventory planning, forecasting, or supply chain management analytics and 1 year + Leadership experience (direct or indirect, including mentoring or coaching) required and
• 1+ years Experience with Python or advanced analytics techniques. Experience in distribution, retail, or multi-echelon inventory environments. Demonstrated experience leading process improvement or automation initiatives. preferred
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with data tools such as SQL, SAP and Power BI.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and strong storytelling with data.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Required experience with enterprise planning systems (e.g., SAP or equivalent).
• Up to 10% of travel required

Rewards and Benefits
Our programs provide choice and flexibility to meet your individual needs. Check out some of the benefits available to you with Grainger (may vary based on hours worked):

• Medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
• Paid time off (PTO) and up to 12 company holidays per year (dependent on home province)
• Life insurance coverage, including spousal and dependent life insurance.
• Employee Family Assistance Program to help team members with physical, emotional, mental, financial and other concerns
• Registered Retirement Savings Plan & Defined Contribution Pension Plan to help you save for your financial future
• Educational & Professional Membership Fee Assistance program
• Employee discounts, team member perks and more!

DEI Statement

We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't perfectly match this job post as you may still be the right candidate for this role or others. We aspire to create a culture where everyone is comfortable being who they are, can learn and grow to realize their full potential, and is recognized and rewarded for their impact.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, or disability. Should you need a reasonable accommodation during the application and selection process, please advise us so we can provide appropriate assistance.

Pre-employment background checks are required for all external candidates. Internal candidates undergo a background check when they move from a non-driving role to a driving role.