Purchasing and Inventory Manager

Job Description

About the role:

We are looking for an experienced and reliable Purchasing & Inventory Manager to oversee the ordering, stock management, and supplier relationships. This is a key role responsible for ensuring the store is well-stocked with the right products at the right time, while controlling costs, minimising waste, and negotiating strong terms with suppliers.

The ideal candidate is organised, analytical, and comfortable working with suppliers, shipping/freight logistics, and stock systems, with a good understanding of ordering and importing processes in the Pacific/Oceania.

Key Responsibilities:

Plan and place stock orders based on sales trends, seasonal demand, and shelf availability

Manage relationships with local and overseas suppliers, including negotiating pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules

Monitor stock levels across all departments and prevent both stockouts and overstocking

Coordinate with freight/shipping agents on imported goods, including delivery timing

Work closely with our Supply Chain Manager to ensure a smooth customs and declarations process

Track and reduce stock loss, wastage, and expired goods

Assisting regular stocktakes and reconcile inventory discrepancies

Analyse purchasing costs and margins to support pricing decisions

Work closely with store management on promotions, new product lines, and seasonal ranges

Ensure compliance with any relevant import, quarantine, or food safety requirements

Organisation Description

LCM Store was established in 1964 as a family-run wholesale and retail supermarket serving Santo, Vanuatu. Now in its third generation of family ownership, LCM Store combines decades of local knowledge to supply the community with a reliable stock of fresh and frozen produce, pantry staples, household items, and hot food options.

Our mission is to offer quality products at fair prices, with warm, helpful, and convenient service. We are committed to supporting local employment and training, and we're proud to serve the Santo community.

Selection Criteria

3-5 years previous experience in purchasing, procurement, stock control, or supermarket/retail management

Strong numerical and analytical skills; comfortable working with spreadsheets and stock reports

Good negotiation and communication skills for dealing with suppliers

Understanding of import processes, freight, and customs procedures (or willingness to learn)

High attention to detail and strong organisational skills

Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities

Strong computer literacy (Excel, email, POS/inventory systems)

Experience working in the Pacific is highly favourable but not required

How To Apply

Please send your CV and a short cover letter to nicole@lcmstore.com