Overview

A finished goods supervisor is responsible for managing the movement, storage and distribution of finished goods after they have left the manufacturing line. With the help of warehouse staff, they ensure trucks are loaded and unloaded properly and all scheduled outbound shipments are delivered on time. Finished goods supervisors organize and maintain inventories throughout the warehouse and keep it clean.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Schedule, prepare and administer work tasks to warehouse staff
• Maintain physical inventories of products
• Assist workers to resolve day-to-day operational issues
• Compare the physical inventory in the warehouse with the records of inventory on hand
• Ensure accurate and timely entering and publishing of data for warehouse transactions
• Generate packing slips (inventory on a shipment) and bill of ladings (a detailed list of a shipment of goods)
• Plan warehouse layout and space requirements to prevent loss or damage
• Ensure that trucks are loaded and unloaded properly with appropriate documentation
• Perform departmental and area housekeeping to ensure space is clear, safe and storage is maximized
• Ensure all scheduled outbound shipments are delivered on time and accurately
• Operate a forklift to move items around a warehouse
• Communicate with vendors if there are delays in outbound shipments
•  
• Direct inventory movement throughout the warehouse
• Ensure that shipments are ready for delivery
• Keep track of products which are perishable and ensure oldest products are moved out first
• Forward customer service requests for warehouse and facility services and respond to internal customer requests for information and actions
• Develop strong relationships with truck drivers and delivery services

What education and training is required?

Typically, extensive experience working in a warehouse is required. However, an associates or bachelor’s degree in agribusiness, supply chain management, transportation, logistics or a related field is preferred. Additionally, a forklift license is considered an asset.

To pursue a career as an Finished Goods Supervisor :

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, business, personal finance, science and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Finished goods supervisors are typically employed by food production companies, equipment sales companies, chemical companies, co-ops, seed production companies, retail businesses and animal health companies.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Good

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply
• The Distribution Business Management Association
• Trade organization for the type of product manufactured