Main Purpose of the Job:
To manage the efficient and accurate receipt, inspection, and documentation of all stock entering the supermarket. The Goods Inwards Manager is responsible for ensuring stock integrity, compliance with HACCP and Health & Safety regulations, and maintaining an organised and secure back-store area. This role plays a key part in the store`s supply chain, supporting availability on the shop floor and reducing stock loss through robust procedures and team leadership.
Key Skills & Experience:
- Previous experience in a supermarket or high-volume retail stock control role is essential;
- Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP, and health & safety standards;
- Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate a small team;
- High attention to detail with strong organisational and time-management skills;
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure in a fast-paced retail environment;
- Competency in using inventory management systems and digital tools (e.g. handheld scanners, Microsoft Excel);
- Professional, reliable, and confident when dealing with suppliers and internal teams.
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Key Responsibilities:
1. Goods Receiving & Inspection
- Manage the receipt of all stock deliveries to ensure accuracy against delivery dockets and purchase orders;
- Record and report discrepancies, damages, or shortfalls promptly to the relevant departments;
- Schedule deliveries to avoid congestion and ensure smooth operations.
2. Back-Store Management
- Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised back-store and loading bay;
- Implement effective stock rotation practices (e.g. FIFO) and ensure proper product storage, particularly for chilled, frozen, and perishable goods;
- Ensure temperature checks and storage compliance in accordance with food safety guidelines.
3. Stock Accuracy & Documentation
- Ensure all incoming goods are accurately logged in the store`s inventory system;
- Submit all delivery paperwork and invoices to the accounts or purchasing team daily;
- Assist in regular stock counts and quarterly stocktakes, flagging variances and potential shrinkage issues.
4. Returns & Waste Management
- Oversee the processing and documentation of returns (e.g. damaged goods, expired stock);
- Ensure proper handling, storage, and return of supplier crates, combis, and pallets;
- Monitor and enforce store waste disposal and recycling procedures.
5. Team Leadership & Training
- Supervise goods-inwards staff and support their training and development;
- Set and monitor performance standards to ensure consistency and accuracy;
- Promote a positive and efficient working environment focused on team collaboration.
6. Compliance & Store Standards
- Ensure all practices meet legal requirements under HACCP, Health & Safety, and Food Safety regulations;
- Conduct regular audits and liaise with store management on corrective actions;
- Control supplier access to delivery areas to maintain store security and safety protocols.
7. Communication & Collaboration
- Liaise with the floor managers and department heads to communicate stock availability, shortages, or delays;
- Support the fresh, ambient, and frozen departments with accurate stock replenishment information.
8. Brand & Customer Service
- Represent the store and SuperValu brand values (Genuine, Passion for Food, Vibrant, Committed, Innovative, Imaginative) through professional behaviour and high standards;
- Deal with all supplier interactions and any customer queries related to stock or returns in a courteous and professional manner.
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Additional Information:
- This is a full-time position based in a busy supermarket setting.
- Flexibility is required regarding shift patterns, which may include early mornings, weekends, or peak trading periods (e.g. Christmas, promotions).
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