153 Inventory Controller jobs in South Africa

Job Title: Inventory Controller
Location: Midrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Reports to: Supply Chain Executive

About the Company

A leading provider of specialised beverage solutions to the hospitality, catering, on-trade, and service industries is seeking an experienced Inventory Controller to join its supply chain team in Midrand. The business is known for its innovative, high-quality beverage products and value-added services that support some of South Africa’s most dynamic hospitality operators. As the company continues to grow, it is looking for a meticulous, organised, and results-driven individual to ensure that inventory operations are efficient, accurate, and aligned with business demands.

Role Overview

The Inventory Controller will play a critical role in monitoring, managing, and optimizing stock across multiple warehouses and distribution points. The successful candidate will ensure accurate stock levels, efficient movement of goods, and adherence to company processes. This role requires strong analytical skills, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to work cross-functionally with supply chain, sales, and operations teams.

Key Responsibilities

Stock Management & Control

• Oversee daily, weekly, and monthly stock counts across warehouses and depots.
• Monitor and maintain accurate stock levels to ensure consistent product availability.
• Track stock movement, shelf life, batch numbers, and expiry dates to minimize write-offs.
• Identify, investigate, and resolve stock variances in a timely manner.
• Ensure all inventory transactions are accurately captured in the ERP system.

Warehouse & Distribution Oversight

• Support the planning and execution of stock replenishments across multiple distribution points.
• Collaborate with warehouse teams to ensure proper handling, storage, and rotation of stock (FIFO).
• Conduct spot checks and audits to ensure compliance with company processes.
• Coordinate with logistics providers to monitor inbound and outbound stock movements.

Reporting & Analytics

• Generate accurate daily, weekly, and monthly stock reports for management.
• Track KPIs such as stock accuracy, shrinkage, and inventory turnover ratios.
• Provide insights and recommendations to improve stock control processes.
• Assist in preparing reports for management reviews and audits.

Process Compliance & Improvement

• Ensure compliance with internal controls, policies, and procedures relating to inventory.
• Identify inefficiencies in inventory management processes and recommend improvements.
• Implement best practices to minimize risk of stock losses, obsolescence, and overstocking.
• Support the integration of new systems, tools, or technologies that enhance inventory control.

Requirements & Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Management, or related field.
• Minimum of 5–7 years’ experience in inventory management, stock control, or warehouse operations (preferably in FMCG).
• Strong knowledge of stock control principles and inventory best practices.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent).

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in stock management.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Hands-on, proactive approach with a strong sense of accountability.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Inventory accuracy percentage (target vs actual).
• Stock variance resolution time.
• Inventory turnover ratio.
• Stock write-off levels (shrinkage, obsolescence).
• Reporting accuracy and timeliness.

What’s on Offer

• An opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking company that is reshaping the beverage solutions industry.
• A collaborative, supportive working environment.
• Competitive salary package with opportunities for career growth.

Application Process

If you are detail-oriented, highly organised, and passionate about delivering operational excellence in inventory management, we would love to hear from you.

PURPOSE OF ROLE:

The Inventory Controller is responsible for managing and optimizing inventory levels, ensuring accurate record-keeping, and maintaining the efficient flow of goods in and out of the warehouse. This role plays a critical part in minimizing costs and maximizing operational efficiency.

Key Performance Areas:

Inventory Management

Manage and control all aspects of warehouse inventory. Maintain an effective inventory management system through SOP auditing. Monitor stock accuracy through daily stock checks. A predetermined number of SKUs should be counted daily and reported on. All damaged stock must be physically removed from the location, and appropriate actions should be taken to ensure accuracy is maintained at all times (as per SOP). Stock accuracy should be at 99% (Physical Count/Systematic Stock). Weekly process auditing and findings should be presented to the supervisor. Daily feedback should be provided with stock results and insights gained.

Record-Keeping

Maintain accurate records of inventory levels, transactions, and adjustments. Conduct regular cycle counts and periodic physical inventories. Ensure all data is current within the inventory management system. Stock accuracy should be at 99% (Physical Count/Systematic Stock). All stock should be counted twice a year, with all counts signed off and actioned within 24 hours.

Quality Control

Ensure product quality by implementing FIFO (First-In, First-Out) and FEFO (First-Expired, First-Out) principles. Identify and address damaged or expired items promptly. Auditing and reporting of findings should be conducted weekly. All damaged items should be stored in allocated locations, with damages kept at 0.1% of total stock holding for the year.

Order Fulfilment

Collaborate with other departments to fulfil orders accurately and on time by assisting investigations to ensure company objectives are met promptly. Ensure orders are picked, packed, and dispatched efficiently as per SLA, with outbound fulfilment at 99% and outbound SLA at 98%.

Housekeeping

Floor and workstations must be kept neat, clean, and tidy at all times. All stock should be kept within their agreed storage areas, and equipment should be maintained in a condition conducive to a safe working area. Identifying workplace safety hazards and ensuring the area promotes a culture of Health and Safety is crucial. Storage areas must be kept neat, clean, tidy, and safe.

Requirements:

Computer Literacy/Systems:

Basic proficiency in Windows and the MS Office suite.

Knowledge, Education, Skills & Experience:

• At Minimum, Matric/NQF 4 level qualification
• Preferred - Supply Chain/Logistics/Warehouse & Distribution qualification
• Inventory Control experience 2+yrs
• Administration skills relevant to inventory control 2+ yrs
• Ability to cope under high levels of pressure in a fast-moving environment.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to monitor and assess performance—whether of yourself, other individuals, or organizations—to make improvements.
• Quality Control Analysis: Conducting inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

Personality Characteristics:

• Focused
• Trustworthy
• Caring
• Detail-oriented

Purpose Of Role
The Inventory Controller is responsible for managing and optimizing inventory levels, ensuring accurate record-keeping, and maintaining the efficient flow of goods in and out of the warehouse. This role plays a critical part in minimizing costs and maximizing operational efficiency.

Key Performance Areas
Inventory Management
Manage and control all aspects of warehouse inventory. Maintain an effective inventory management system through SOP auditing. Monitor stock accuracy through daily stock checks. A predetermined number of SKUs should be counted daily and reported on. All damaged stock must be physically removed from the location, and appropriate actions should be taken to ensure accuracy is maintained at all times (as per SOP). Stock accuracy should be at 99% (Physical Count/Systematic Stock). Weekly process auditing and findings should be presented to the supervisor. Daily feedback should be provided with stock results and insights gained.

Record-Keeping
Maintain accurate records of inventory levels, transactions, and adjustments. Conduct regular cycle counts and periodic physical inventories. Ensure all data is current within the inventory management system. Stock accuracy should be at 99% (Physical Count/Systematic Stock). All stock should be counted twice a year, with all counts signed off and actioned within 24 hours.

Quality Control
Ensure product quality by implementing FIFO (First-In, First-Out) and FEFO (First-Expired, First-Out) principles. Identify and address damaged or expired items promptly. Auditing and reporting of findings should be conducted weekly. All damaged items should be stored in allocated locations, with damages kept at 0.1% of total stock holding for the year.

Order Fulfilment
Collaborate with other departments to fulfil orders accurately and on time by assisting investigations to ensure company objectives are met promptly. Ensure orders are picked, packed, and dispatched efficiently as per SLA, with outbound fulfilment at 99% and outbound SLA at 98%.

Housekeeping
Floor and workstations must be kept neat, clean, and tidy at all times. All stock should be kept within their agreed storage areas, and equipment should be maintained in a condition conducive to a safe working area. Identifying workplace safety hazards and ensuring the area promotes a culture of Health and Safety is crucial. Storage areas must be kept neat, clean, tidy, and safe.

Requirements
Computer Literacy/Systems:
Basic proficiency in Windows and the MS Office suite.

Knowledge, Education, Skills & Experience

• At Minimum, Matric/NQF 4 level qualification
• Preferred - Supply Chain/Logistics/Warehouse & Distribution qualification
• Inventory Control experience 2+yrs
• Administration skills relevant to inventory control 2+ yrs
• Ability to cope under high levels of pressure in a fast-moving environment.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to monitor and assess performance—whether of yourself, other individuals, or organizations—to make improvements.
• Quality Control Analysis: Conducting inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

Personality Characteristics

• Focused
• Trustworthy
• Caring
• Detail-oriented

Purpose of the Role

The Inventory Controller is responsible for ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and completeness of all financial records relating to inventory held in the company's warehouses (there are warehouses situated in various countries, including South Africa, China and Zambia). This includes overseeing the financial reporting of stock, validating stock movements, and ensuring that stock transactions are properly processed, reconciled, and reflected in the accounting system.

The role serves as the key link between warehouse operations and the finance department, supporting both operational efficiency and accurate financial reporting in compliance with accounting standards and internal control policies.

Key Responsibilities

1. Stock Accounting and Financial Reporting

• Review and reconcile all stock-related general ledger accounts to ensure accurate valuation and reporting of inventory balances. This will be reconciled to the stock valuation report.
• Ensure that stock movements (purchases, transfers, issues, and sales) are correctly captured in SAGE X3, through liaising with the various stakeholders.
• Prepare and review monthly stock reports, including valuation adjustments, write-offs, and provisions for obsolete or slow-moving stock.
• Ensure compliance with IFRS for SMEs and company accounting policies in the treatment and presentation of inventory.

2. Stock Verification and Control

• Coordinate and oversee periodic stock counts (cycle counts and full physical counts) across warehouse locations and ensure the system reflects their physical counted quantities.
• Review stock count results, investigate variances, and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Monitor stock adjustments to identify unusual patterns or control weaknesses.
• Maintain and enhance internal controls over stock management and reporting processes.

3. Transaction Processing Oversight

• Review and approve stock-related transactions such as purchase orders, goods received notes, and sales orders to ensure proper financial documentation.
• Verify that all stock purchases and issues are appropriately authorised and supported by valid documentation.
• Liaise with procurement, sales, and logistics teams to resolve discrepancies in stock processing and documentation.

4. Analysis and Management Support

• Analyse gross margins and stock-related variances to support business decision-making.
• Provide financial insights to management on stock utilisation, turnover, and valuation trends.
• Support external and internal audit requirements related to stock accounting.

5. Systems and Process Improvement

• Participate in process reviews and system enhancements to improve accuracy and efficiency in stock management.
• Support the implementation of best practices in stock accounting, reporting, and internal control.

Key Competencies

• Strong understanding of inventory accounting and valuation principles (FIFO, weighted average, NRV tests).
• Solid working knowledge of ERP systems and stock management modules.
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams (finance, warehouse, procurement).
• Sound knowledge of IFRS for SMEs and internal control frameworks.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or equivalent.
• Completed articles or studying toward a professional qualification (CA(SA), CIMA, or similar) advantageous.
• Minimum of 2–3 years' experience in inventory accounting or cost accounting within a manufacturing, retail, or distribution environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP platforms (e.g. SAGE X3).

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We are looking for a highly organised and detail-oriented, mature person to manage stock controlling while also handling reception and administrative duties.

Stock Control & Coordination

• Maintain Inventory System of all inbound and outbound components & equipment.
• Conduct regular investigations to identify and resolve stock discrepancies.
• Effectively track stock movements between the warehouse and construction sites.
• Capture stock-related documentation, including DNs (Delivery Notes) and RNs (Return Notes)
• Report inventory discrepancies to the Operations Manager and Director.

Administrative & Customer Service Duties

• Answer phone calls, take messages, and handle general inquiries.
• Assist visitors and direct them to the appropriate staff.
• Liaise with clients when trucks are dispatched for deliveries & collections.
• Ensure factory staff timesheets are completed every morning / afternoon
• Assist with general office tasks as required by the Office Manager.

Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 5-6 years in stock control and administration, preferably in construction or scaffolding industry.
• Education: Matric certificate (warehouse / bookkeeping or administrative qualification is advantageous).

Technical Skills:

• High proficiency in inventory management software and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong numerical, organisational, and communication skills.
• Ability to multi-task and work under pressure.
• Professional phone etiquette and customer service skills.
• Able to cope with and adapt to changing priorities
• Problem-Solving ability / attitude

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: R18 000,00 per month

Education:

• Certificate (Preferred)

Experience:

• STOCK CONTROL: 5 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Purpose of the Job
Carry out inventory procedures within an operation or as allocated in line with Value inventory procedures and customer inventory requirements. Ensure all reports are managed and maintained and inventory accuracy levels are maintained at all times.

Operational

• Ensure that the Standard Operating Procedures relating to the management and control of inventory are known, understood and followed
• Understand and know how to make use of the various systems in the business
• Carry out inventory related investigations and queries needing resolution and sustainable corrective, action and driving the required actions
• Ensure that NCRs/NCPs /IOs are raised and completed for all areas required as identified during inventory processes and investigations
• Ensure that stock is accounted for at all times and that claims and damages are managed and kept to a minimum

Storage

• Ensure consolidation of pallets in the replenishment areas to improve utilisation
• Conduct spot checks on bin locations to ensure bin accuracy
• Ensure that product is correctly handled to ensure that product quality is maintained and no damages occur
• Ensure that all units of measure are understood and applied
• Ensure that physical and system aligns in terms of product, location and quantity
• Measure obsolete stock as well as expired/non moving stock

Master Data and WMS

• Ensure that master data (product master) is maintained and managed in all operations for the purpose of accurate inventory levels
• Ensure that the product information is correctly uploaded upon receiving
• Ensure that WMS functionality is understood and correctly used and applied as required

Book-to-Book, Cycle Counts and Stock Takes

• Ensure that book-to-books are carried out as per the required frequency and that all variances are investigated and resolved timeously
• Ensure cycle counts are carried out daily as required to maintain high stock accuracy levels with minimal losses
• Ensure empty bin checks are carried out daily
• Report on cycle count results and ensure that any discrepancies are resolved timeously
• Ensure stock take preparations are carried out correctly prior to all stock takes and ensure that the respective inventory records are in place and managed
• Ensure stock takes are carried out effectively and correctly as per the Value and customer requirements
• Ensure cycle count and stock take results are reported to senior management and clients as required
• Ensure all inventory records are correctly filed and easily accessible should they be required (Stock take, cycle counts, inventory investigations etc)

Reporting

• Ensure that daily, weekly and monthly inventory reports are completed and provided to the relevant management
• Ensure that inventory KPI is maintained and reported on
• Investigate inventory KPI failures
• Investigate stock variances and assist in provision of resolution actions
• Analyse reports with the aim of identifying solutions for improvement and or resolution of problem areas

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• Logistics/warehouse/business management diploma/degree beneficial
• 3 years of experience in the logistics/warehouse industry with inventory knowledge

Skills Requirements

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Organisation and planning skills
• Ability to identify discrepancies
• Data analytics and problem-solving skills

We Go Places How about you?

Immediate Superior: Francis Tease

Job Grade: 8

Location: Mbombela

Function: Supply Chain

Sub Function: Customer Services & Logistics

Type of Contract: Permanent

Reference Number:

Closing Date: 24 October 2025

Purpose of the Position:

The effective management of inventory received, stored and despatched to ensure OTIF delivery of quality products and achievement of financial imperatives. Act as the custodian of the Warehouse Management System at site level (Super User).

Key Performance Areas would include, but are not limited to:

• Ensure cost effective inventory management of all goods

• Maintain highest possible level of customer service. (Internal and external)

• Manage stock movements and documentation in accordance with the ICC and Internal/External Audit controls.

• Ensure routine Quality Control inspections in Secondary Operations.

• Understanding, implementation and adherence to Internal Control Measures such as ICC's, ISO requirements, and Operations Excellence

• Conduct stock count according to company standards and procedures

• Ensure that all post goods issues have been processed for all deliveries and driver corrections

• Ensure missing broken and foreign surveys are conducted according to policy

• Ensure that all stock postings are posted to the correct accounts

• Improving business processes to ensure achievements of Business Objectives

The successful candidate must have the following qualification, skills and experience:

• A relevant tertiary qualification

• 2 years of relevant experience in FMCG Logistics / Distribution Environment

• Computer literacy in MS Office, SAP, Success Factors

• The ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines

• Excellent communication skills (both written and oral) and sound presentation skills

• The ability to work after hours and / or shifts if necessary

Demonstrates proficiency in the following Behavioural competencies:

Lead Self

• Personal effectiveness

• Resilience

• Model the Organisation

Thinking and Innovation

• Business Acumen

• Adaptability

• Problem solving

Relationship

• Customer focus

• Builds and maintain relationships

• Engagement skills

Management

• Planning, Organising & Controlling

• Deliver Results

• Creates ownership Leadership

Leadership

• Leading change

• Leading teams

• Leading individual performance

Purpose of the Position:

The effective management of inventory received, stored and despatched to ensure OTIF delivery of quality products and achievement of financial imperatives. Act as the custodian of the Warehouse Management System at site level (Super User).

Key Performance Areas would include, but are not limited to:

• Ensure cost effective inventory management of all goods

• Maintain highest possible level of customer service. (Internal and external)

• Manage stock movements and documentation in accordance with the ICC and Internal/External Audit controls.

• Ensure routine Quality Control inspections in Secondary Operations.

• Understanding, implementation and adherence to Internal Control Measures such as ICC's, ISO requirements, and Operations Excellence

• Conduct stock count according to company standards and procedures

• Ensure that all post goods issues have been processed for all deliveries and driver corrections

• Ensure missing broken and foreign surveys are conducted according to policy

• Ensure that all stock postings are posted to the correct accounts

• Improving business processes to ensure achievements of Business Objectives

The successful candidate must have the following qualification, skills and experience:

• A relevant tertiary qualification

• 2 years of relevant experience in FMCG Logistics / Distribution Environment

• Computer literacy in MS Office, SAP, Success Factors

• The ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines

• Excellent communication skills (both written and oral) and sound presentation skills

• The ability to work after hours and / or shifts if necessary

Demonstrates proficiency in the following Behavioural competencies:

Lead Self

• Personal effectiveness

• Resilience

• Model the Organisation

Thinking and Innovation

• Business Acumen

• Adaptability

• Problem solving

Relationship

• Customer focus

• Builds and maintain relationships

• Engagement skills

Management

• Planning, Organising & Controlling

• Deliver Results

• Creates ownership Leadership

Leadership

• Leading change

• Leading teams

• Leading individual performance

The Company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. Heineken Beverages (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd) is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values inclusion and diversity. You must be fully eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply.

About Us

Symrise is a global supplier of fragrances, flavors, food, nutrition, and cosmetic ingredients. Its clients include manufacturers of perfumes, cosmetics, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals and producers of nutritional supplements and pet food.

Its sales of € 4.6 billion in the 2022 fiscal year make Symrise a leading global provider. Headquartered in Holzminden, Germany, the Group is represented by more than 100 locations in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, the United States and Latin America.

Symrise works with its clients to develop new ideas and market-ready concepts for products that form an integral part of everyday life. Economic success and corporate responsibility are inextricably linked as part of this process.

Symrise – always inspiring more…

Your Role

Responsible for managing and organizing stock levels for TN&H, Cosmetic Ingredients and Fragrances at Isando, South Africa

Oversee the supply and demand of raw materials and products

Ensure that goods are in stock and are organized properly and that stock levels align with business needs

Ensure world class inventory management of raw materials and finished goods

Conduct weekly stock cycle counts

Perform daily Bin stock management and correct discrepancies immediately

Prepare and participate in the annual stock take exercise

Ensure competent and motivated personnel of the Receiving and Raw Material Issuing teams

Liase with the Procurement, Planning, Customer Service and Production departments on a daily basis to ensure consistent and continuous operations of production and deliveries to customers

Responsible to ensure that all health and safety, quality and food safety requirements and regulations are adhered to at all times

About You

Diploma or degree in Operations Management or Supply Chain

Minimum of 3 years' experience in inbound and outbound logistics within the food manufacturing industry

Experience working on SAP within a warehouse or manufacturing environment will be an advantage

Intermediate level of proficiency in Excel, Word and Outlook

Attention to detail

Good leadership and supervisory skills

Excellent organizing skills

Good verbal and written communication skills

Strong customer service orientation skills

Ability to prioritize and work under pressure

Strong conflict and problem-solving management skills

Valid forklift license

Valid Reach Truck license

Solid understanding of food safety principles and practices

Knowledge of the handling and storing of hazardous materials

Our Offer

Become part of our open and transparent culture. It will give you the opportunity to flourish and to develop inspiring experiences that contribute to the health and well-being of consumers in 160 countries around the world. Putting our employees in the focus fuels our strong company growth above market rates and makes us an excellent place to develop your career.

Come join us and embark on a fascinating journey with Symrise.

If you feel that you fit the above criteria, then please apply by using our online application system. Your application will be treated confidentially.

Job Reference: EA03489

• To assist the National Inventory Manager with inventory related issues in all warehouses and Company Owned Franchises.
• To assist with inventory issues nationally and assist the inventory controllers in all Company owned Franchises and warehouses.
• To assist in identifying, maintaining & managing the accuracy of stock levels and stock movement nationally.
• To ensure all ACDC procedures are implemented, staff are trained in it and that they are following it, providing customer satisfaction and as little as possible errors and damages.
• To assist the branches in running efficiently with regards to company procedures & inventory related issues.
• To prepare & do stock takes and ongoing cycle- & range counts.
• To investigate & resolve any stock variances & stock related issues.
• To assist in the preparation of warehouses for the audited stock take every financial year end.
• To ensure that all inventory related reports are cleared and submitted on time. (Weekly & Monthly reports)
• To ensure the storerooms/lockups are always clean & tidy.
• To assist where and when needed.

Daily:

• To resolve Discrepancies
• Range counts
• Cycle counts
• Transfer to correct stock between locations in your branches
• General inventory management
• Discrepancy & variance investigations for stock in your branches/C.O.F
• Stock Adjustment requests for your branches/C.O.F
• Stock queries

Weekly:
- Submit the weekly reports (BOF; MULTIPLE BINS; OBSOLETE; OUTSTANDING DISCREPANCIES; IN

TRANSIT; BACKORDERS WITH STOCK & ALL OTHER INVENTORY RELATED REPORTS) to the

National Inventory manager & the Branch manager.
- Random Audits and Inspections
- Warehouse Inspections and reports
- Ensuring that the branches are running according to the company's inventory procedures &

requirements.

• Monthly:
  
  Month-end reports

• Grade 12/Matric.

• Relevant tertiary qualification will be highly advantageous.
• Minimum 2 - 3 years of experience as an Inventory Controller.