Description:
On behalf of Ferndale Foods Australia, we are currently seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Purchasing & Inventory Controller to join their growing team on a full-time, permanent basis. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a high-quality business with world-class facilities, offering long-term job stability and opportunities for professional development.
About Ferndale Foods
Ferndale Foods Australia is a family owned, innovative Ballarat business, demonstrating sustained business success. Founded on world class product quality and a highly focused business strategy, Ferndale's brands, including JILA® mints, JOLS® fruit pastilles, LICORETTE®, SO SOFT® Marshmallows andTeam Nutrition® provide convenient enjoyment for millions of consumers throughout Australia and around the world. This role is specifically based at the new world-class snack bar manufacturing facility located in Delacombe.
About the Role
Reporting to the Commercial Manager, the Purchasing & Inventory Controller will play a key role within the Ferndale Foods team by overseeing and managing inventory to ensure that stock levels are accurately tracked and maintained.
Regular duties will include:
- Monitoring and maintaining accurate records of ingredient stock levels (700+ items)
- Ensuring key inventory reports are produced daily and analysed
- Investigating discrepancies and issues within pre-determined timeframes
- Maintaining high standards of record-keeping, including reports, stock adjustments, cycle count sheets, claims/resolutions, and out-of-stock information
- Reconciling system stock against physical stock
- Investigating and resolving discrepancies
- Promoting and driving a culture of engagement and continuous improvement
- Collaborating with Commercial, Operations, and Warehousing teams to ensure accurate, efficient, and timely order preparation and loading
- Managing all inventory control processes and procedures to meet agreed-upon KPI targets
- Ensuring inventory aligns with production schedules and demand forecasts
- Generating purchase orders for raw materials across the three sites.
- Maintain system integrity of inventory item information.
- Assist with the planning & supply of imported ingredients & packaging.
- Communicating with suppliers regarding forecasts, lead times, delays, or quality concerns
- Monitoring shelf life and expiry dates of ingredients
- Providing input for improvements to inventory tracking and reporting processes
- Ensuring compliance with company policies, food safety regulations, and industry standards
- Supporting internal and external audits by providing accurate inventory data and documentation
Key Competencies, Skills, and Qualifications
- Proven inventory experience, ideally in a similar role within the Supply Chain, Logistics, Warehouse or Transport industry
- Strong analytical skills and exceptional attention to detail
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Superior time management abilities with the capacity to manage work schedules independently
- Flexibility and reliability, with the ability to work under pressure
- Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office (particularly MS Excel)
- Ability to build and maintain long-term relationships with internal and external stakeholders
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
This position offers a full-time, permanent role with an attractive remuneration package, to be negotiated based on skills and experience. For a confidential conversation, please contact Justin Thompson at Workforce Extensions at 0418 392 056.