IT Lead Contractor – Advanced Planning & Inventory Optimization

Location: Irving TX

Department: Information Technology

Client is seeking an IT Lead Advanced Planning & Inventory Optimization to lead the design implementation and execution of enterprise inventory planning capabilities across Blue Yonder (BY) and integrated enterprise systems. This role is accountable for translating business objectives high inventory availability strong customer service and disciplined working capital management into scalable planning strategies system configurations and data-driven inventory policies.

This is a hands-on role within IT accountable for inventory planning outcomes. The position requires deep expertise in inventory optimization advanced planning systems and the ability to architect solutions that balance service cost and operational constraints in a complex distribution environment.

Inventory Strategy & Optimization

Own and continuously improve enterprise inventory planning strategies including safety stock service-level optimization replenishment policies and inventory segmentation.

Balance inventory availability working capital efficiency and operational constraints.

Lead initiatives to reduce excess and obsolete inventory while improving fill rate and OTIF.

Establish governance standards for inventory parameters and planning policies.

Advanced Planning Systems (Blue Yonder)

Serve as IT lead for inventory optimization logic within Blue Yonder Demand and Fulfillment modules.

Translate business inventory strategies into system configuration enhancements and integrations.

Partner with vendors and internal teams on upgrades and enhancements.

Reduce dependency on external consultants.

Cross-System Integration & Data Leadership

Ensure alignment across planning systems ERP execution and master data.

Improve forecast accuracy lead-time variability modeling and analytics.

Enable inventory health dashboards and exception reporting.

Stakeholder Partnership & Leadership

Act as a trusted partner to Supply Chain Operations Procurement and Finance.

Communicate inventory trade-offs clearly to leadership.

Mentor teams and establish design and documentation standards.

8 years of experience in inventory planning and advanced planning systems.

Hands-on experience with Blue Yonder or comparable APS platforms.

Strong background in distribution or aftermarket inventory environments.

Strong analytical and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Consulting experience in supply chain or APS.

Experience with multi-DC inventory optimization.

ERP integration experience (SAP Oracle).

Improved fill rate and OTIF.

Reduced excess and obsolete inventory.

Stable governed inventory planning policies.

Reduced reliance on external consultants.