Job Description
Job Summary
- The Inventory Officer is responsible for the efficient management, control, and monitoring of stock within the pharmacy and store.
- This includes ensuring accurate stock levels, proper storage of pharmaceutical products, minimizing wastage/expiry, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
- The role ensures uninterrupted availability of medicines and health products while maintaining accountability and transparency in inventory records.
Key Responsibilities
Inventory Management & Control:
- Maintain accurate records of all stock received, stored, and issued using inventory systems.
- Monitor stock levels and ensure timely replenishment to avoid stock-outs.
- Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly stock counts (cycle counts and full stock-taking).
- Reconcile physical stock with system records and investigate discrepancies.
- Implement FIFO (First In, First Out) and FEFO (First Expiry, First Out) principles.
Receiving & Inspection of Goods:
- Verify incoming supplies against purchase orders and delivery notes.
- Inspect products for quality, quantity, batch numbers, and expiry dates.
- Ensure all received items meet regulatory and company standards.
- Record and report damaged, expired, or short-supplied goods.
Storage & Organization:
- Ensure proper storage conditions in line with pharmaceutical standards (temperature, humidity, light control).
- Arrange products systematically for easy identification and retrieval.
- Maintain cleanliness, safety, and organization of the store.
- Monitor cold chain products (if applicable) and maintain temperature logs.
Stock Issuance & Distribution:
- Issue stock to pharmacy units/branches based on approved requisitions.
- Ensure proper documentation for all stock movements.
- Track inter-branch transfers and returns accurately.
Expiry & Loss Management:
- Monitor expiry dates regularly and implement strategies to minimize losses.
- Prepare reports on near-expiry and expired items.
- Coordinate removal and proper disposal of expired or damaged goods.
- Investigate causes of stock variances, theft, or losses.
Documentation & Reporting:
- Maintain up-to-date inventory records (manual and electronic systems).
- Generate regular reports (stock levels, consumption trends, variances, expiries).
- Assist in audit processes and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., PCN guidelines).
Compliance & Quality Assurance:
- Ensure adherence to pharmaceutical regulations and internal SOPs.
- Support regulatory inspections and audits.
- Maintain proper documentation for traceability of all products.
Coordination & Communication:
- Work closely with pharmacists, procurement team, and management.
- Provide timely updates on stock status and reorder needs.
- Support forecasting and demand planning activities.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Accuracy of inventory records
- Reduction in stock variances
- Minimal expiry and wastage levels
- Timely stock replenishment
- Compliance with audit and regulatory standards
Required Qualification
Educational Qualification:
Minimum of HND/B.Sc. in:
- Pharmacy Technician Studies
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
- Supply Chain Management
- Business Administration or related field
Professional Requirements:
- Certification in Inventory Management or Supply Chain (added advantage)
- Knowledge of pharmaceutical products and storage requirements
- Familiarity with PCN regulations and guidelines (Nigeria)
Experience:
Required Skills & Competencies:
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Good knowledge of inventory software (e.g., Excel, ERP systems)
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Organizational and time management skills
- Integrity and accountability
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Additional Requirements:
- High level of honesty and trustworthiness
- Ability to handle confidential information
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new systems.
Working Conditions
- Work involves standing, lifting, and handling stock items
- May require extended hours during stock-taking or audits.