Kevin Mueller

• Optimized Supply Chain Efficiency

Managed the supply chain process, ensuring prompt delivery of goods and services by coordinating with vendors, analyzing data on supplier performance, inventory levels, and transportation costs. This led to improved efficiency and timely fulfillment of customer orders.

• Continuous Process Improvement

Conducted regular reviews of supply chain processes and procedures, identifying areas for improvement. Implemented actionable recommendations based on data trends, enhancing operational effectiveness and reducing costs.

• Effective Vendor Management and Negotiation

Negotiated contracts with suppliers for favorable pricing terms while maintaining high quality standards. Established communication channels with key vendors, ensuring quick problem resolution and fostering strong partnerships.

• Compliance and Risk Management

Ensured compliance with international regulations governing the movement of goods across borders or customs zones. Managed the returns process and coordinated return freight arrangements, minimizing risks and ensuring regulatory adherence

• Cross-Functional Collaboration

Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth execution of supply chain activities, resolving issues related to order fulfillment, invoicing discrepancies, and product quality complaints. This facilitated streamlined operations and improved customer satisfaction

• Optimized Warehouse Inventory Operations

Managed Inventory for a 350,000 sq. ft. Distribution Center with 49,000 stocking locations and over 20,000 SKUs. Implemented procedures and policies to measure and maintain inventory levels effectively using Manhattan PkMS WMS System with EDI integration, ensuring accuracy across multiple ERP systems (ASI, BPCS, Data Works).

• Team Leadership and Training

Led a high-performing team of 13 employees across 3 shifts, focusing on maintaining inventory accuracy. Developed training manuals and conducted associate training for inventory, receiving, and replenishment roles, enhancing team capabilities and reducing errors.

• Continuous Improvement Initiatives

Implemented improvement scorecards and facilitated Kaizen Events to drive process improvements. Developed Excel workbooks for troubleshooting and documenting performance and process defects, enhancing operational efficiency and quality.

• Root Cause Analysis and Risk Management

Conducted root cause analysis for inventory discrepancies, communicated issues effectively, and implemented corrective action plans. Introduced initiatives like the Penalty Box Ticket Program, Cycle Count Workbook, and Replenishment & Put-Away Audits for systematic root cause analysis and continuous improvement

• Strategic Inventory Management

Managed various large inventory projects, including new product introductions and customer launches, utilizing Manhattan PkMS WMS System and Excel for project management. Successfully implemented the Use-Up Go to Process for projects, resulting in avoiding $600K in excess or obsolete inventory costs.

• Strategic KPI Implementation

Developed and implemented KPI performance measurement reporting, focusing on Distribution Center Costs, Productivity, Customer Service Performance, and Inventory Accuracy. This initiative provided clear visibility into operational metrics, enabling informed decision-making and continuous improvement

• Operational Efficiency Improvement

Led ManhattenWMS Database Master accuracy initiative, resulting in improved operational and financial performance. This effort enhanced data integrity and reliability, contributing to overall efficiency gains.

• Cost Reduction and Productivity Improvement

Achieved a 2% reduction in Freight Costs and a 1% improvement in Productivity through targeted initiatives and process optimizations. These improvements directly impacted bottom-line performance and operational effectiveness.

• Problem Solving and System Optimization

Utilized AS400 Query language and Excel to identify and resolve issues within the WMS System, demonstrating strong analytical skills and technical proficiency. Defined application problems and developed solutions, updating standard work documentation to enhance system reliability and usability.

• Process Optimization and Documentation

Collaborated with users to identify procedural inefficiencies, evaluating and implementing process improvements. Developed Replenishment and Put-Away defect procedures and integrated them into Material Handling Equipment (MHE) for streamlined operations and quick reference, improving overall workflow efficiency.

• Strategic Production Planning

Established effective production plans and forecasts for overseas facilities, aligning purchasing, inventory management, and customer service requirements. This ensured smooth operations and optimized resource utilization.

• Inventory Management and Communication

Prioritized and scheduled critical items, monitored inventory levels closely, and communicated plans weekly to address any variances. This proactive approach maintained optimal inventory levels and minimized disruptions.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration

Played a key role in Product Development and Quality teams, facilitating supply chain issues for new product introductions and quality-related issues. This collaboration enhanced product launch efficiency and maintained high-quality standards.

• Efficient Freight Management

Developed cost effective export/import programs and shipment schedules with suppliers and freight forwarders at origin and destination. This streamlined freight movement, reduced waste, and minimized impacts on customer service, contributing to above-average fill rates (>98%) and inventory turns (6.1 vs 5.0).

• International Team Building and Collaboration

Took proactive steps in international team building through site visits to Asian facilities and teleconferences. This fostered strong relationships, improved communication, and enhanced coordination across global supply chain operations.