Find & Apply For Operations Manager / Supervisor Jobs in East Providence, Rhode Island

Job Summary We are seeking an energetic and detail-oriented Supply Chain Operations Manager. As a distributor of OEM equipment and services, John W. Kennedy Co. (the Company) relies on a strategic procurement function to optimize inventory investments, strengthen supplier relationships, and enhance profitability. The Supply Chain Operations Manager role provides leadership over purchasing strategy, supplier performance, inventory planning, and vendor programs across all Company branches. In addition, the role manages inventory accuracy, internal distribution, and branch logistics to support daily operations. By implementing standardized processes and driving continuous improvement, the Supply Chain Operations Manager enables sales and service teams to operate effectively. This is a hands-on manager role focused on execution, process improvement, and team development, while contributing to broader operational planning and performance. This position reports to the President. Purchasing & Vendor Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with OEM partners and branch leadership to support operational and business objectives.
• Develop and implement centralized purchasing strategies across all branches to ensure inventory is positioned in the right locations, available when needed, and acquired at the lowest total cost, while leveraging volume purchasing opportunities.
• Lead vendor negotiations, including pricing, terms, conditions, and service agreements, to improve profitability and mitigate risk.
• Manage supplier rebate programs to maximize rebate earnings and achieve the highest available incentive levels.
• Monitor supplier performance and proactively resolve quality, delivery, pricing, and service-related issues.
• Track material availability, lead times, and demand trends to make informed purchasing decisions that support customer requirements and business priorities.
• Support inventory management and replenishment strategies aligned with sales forecasts, inventory targets, rebate agreement targets, and budget objectives.
• Establish and maintain best practices for purchase requisitions, purchase orders, and procurement processes to improve efficiency, consistency, and control throughout the organization. Warehouse & Inventory Coordination
• Coordinate inventory flow between branches, including stock transfers and replenishment.
• Partner with warehouse teams on receiving, stocking levels, stock put-a-ways and maintaining inventory accuracy.
• Ensure timely fulfillment of internal parts and materials requests.
• Support warehouse organization and optimize inventory layout and safe storage practices Inventory Controls
• Manage inventory levels across multiple locations to ensure product availability while minimizing excess and obsolescence.
• Oversee cycle counts, physical inventory processes, and discrepancy resolution.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure ERP system integrity.
• Establish and monitor min/max levels, reorder points, and inventory turnover targets.
• Manage special orders, warranty claims, and core return programs.
• Identify and implement improvements to inventory accuracy and overall efficiency. Process Improvement & Reporting
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for purchasing and inventory management.
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as stock position, on time delivery and turnover rate.
• Generate and analyze reports to identify trends, gaps, and discrepancies.
• Recommend and support process improvements, including ERP system enhancements.
• The Supply Chain Operations Manager will be responsible for developing monthly and quarterly presentation materials for review by the leadership team and Board of Directors. This role may also be required to participate in review meetings and present key supply chain performance metrics, insights, and recommendations as requested. Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner with sales, service, and leadership teams to align inventory with demand.
• Communicate product availability, lead times, and supply constraints.
• Assist with forecasting inventory needs and planning initiatives. Leadership & Team Management
• Manage purchasing team and support warehouse team.
• Provide training, coaching, and performance guidance to direct reports.
• Promote accountability for accuracy, efficiency, and process adherence.
• Foster a collaborative and results-oriented team environment. Qualifications

Required:

7+ years of experience in inventory, purchasing, or supply chain management.

• Strong understanding of purchasing and inventory control processes.
• Experience in a distribution in a multi-location environment.
• Experience in petroleum equipment or industrial equipment distribution preferred.
• ERP system experience (Epicor Eclipse and/or JD Edwards preferred).
• Supply chain certification (e.g., APICS) preferred. Physical Demands & Work Environment
• Combination of office and warehouse environments, with occasional travel up to 25%.
• Regular standing, walking, and lifting to 25 lbs.
• Exposure to typical warehouse conditions, including varying temperatures and noise.

Pay:

$115,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person