Inventory Optimization Manager

Our Story:

Story Cannabis was built by misfits on a mission — people bold enough to shift the cannabis narrative and create something better. Founded in 2021 by industry veterans, Story is a vertically integrated company headquartered in Phoenix, operating across Arizona, Maryland, Ohio, and Louisiana, and we’re just getting started.

Our vision is to bring hope, happiness, and healing to the world through cannabis, and we’re doing it one state, one store, and one customer at a time.

Leadership defines how we show up. Data drives how we grow. Gratitude keeps us grounded. Unity fuels our momentum. And growth, in every sense, inspires everything we do.

If you’re ready to challenge what’s expected and shape the future of cannabis, your next chapter starts with Story.

Overview: 

The Retail Inventory Optimization Manager is responsible for managing and optimizing inventory accuracy and availability across all retail locations nationwide. This role plays a critical part in supporting sales performance, minimizing shrinkage, and ensuring that product availability aligns with customer demand and merchandising plans. Working closely with the Inventory Planning, Store Operations, Supply Chain, and Loss Prevention teams, the Inventory Specialist will analyze inventory data, identify discrepancies, lead audits, and support initiatives to improve inventory control processes across the retail network. 

Responsibilities: 

• Oversee inventory accuracy and reconciliation processes across all retail stores nationwide. 

• Conduct regular and ad hoc inventory audits, cycle counts, and variance investigations to maintain inventory integrity. 

• Analyze inventory reports to identify discrepancies, trends, and opportunities for improvement in stock accuracy. 

• Partner with store operations and supply chain teams to ensure accurate receiving, transfers, and returns. 

• Collaborate with merchandising and planning teams to align stock levels with forecasted demand and promotional activity. 

• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent inventory practices across all locations. 

• Support store teams with inventory-related training, tools, and best practices to reduce shrink and improve efficiency. 

• Work with Loss Prevention to identify and address root causes of shrinkage, theft, or operational errors. 

• Provide detailed reporting and insights to senior leadership on inventory health, discrepancies, and resolution strategies. 

• Participate in new store openings, relocations, and store closings by coordinating inventory setup and transfer processes. 

Qualifications & Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Retail Operations, or a related field preferred. 

• 3+ years of experience in inventory management, retail operations, or supply chain in a multi-store environment. 

• Experience conducting audits, analyzing inventory data, and implementing inventory control initiatives. 

• Prior experience supporting retail stores across multiple regions or on a national scale is preferred. 

• Familiarity with loss prevention strategies and inventory compliance requirements. 

• Strong knowledge of retail inventory management systems, processes, and best practices. 

• Analytical and detail-oriented, with the ability to interpret large sets of data and generate actionable insights. 

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally and influence store-level compliance. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with inventory management or ERP software (e.g., Metrc, Dutchie Backoffice, Lucid). 

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. 

• Experience working in a fast-paced, multi-location retail environment. 

• Ability to travel regularly to retail locations across the country for audits, training, and support. 

Physical Requirements: 

• This role requires prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. 

Our Benefits:

• Paid time off (PTO) including 8 paid holidays per year*
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance*
• 401k retirement savings plan*
• Company paid Short-Term & Long-Term disability*
• Company paid Life Insurance*
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employee referral program
• Commuter benefits*
• Product discounts
• Additional compensation incentives (tips, bonuses, etc.)

*For full-time positions only

We want our story to be one that fosters an inclusive culture and provides an enriching employee experience. As an equal-opportunity employer, we embrace individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. We believe in providing equal opportunities to all individuals, including those who may have encountered legal issues related to previous marijuana laws. We understand that these laws have disproportionately impacted certain communities and individuals. We are committed to considering all candidates based on their qualifications, skills, and potential to contribute to our team, rather than focusing solely on past legal encounters. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with past involvement with the legal system, to apply for positions within our organization.