Assistant Manager - Stores

Assistant Manager - Stores is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the site and central stores, ensuring efficient inventory control, proper storage practices, timely material issuance and compliance with safety and quality standards. The role ensures that material availability aligns with project schedules, supports cost control measures, and enforces adherence to company policies regarding material handling and documentation. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Supervise the receipt, storage, and issuance of materials, ensuring accurate documentation and minimal discrepancies. • Ensure proper storage conditions and safe handling of materials in compliance with company standards. • Monitor and maintain minimum and maximum inventory levels to avoid shortages or overstock. • Conduct regular physical stock audits and reconcile with system records; investigate variances. • Implement and enforce First-In-First-Out (FIFO) and other best inventory practices. • Coordinate with procurement and project teams to ensure timely availability of required materials. • Manage the return and disposal of excess, damaged, or obsolete materials as per approved procedures. • Ensure all stock movements are accurately recorded in ERP or inventory management software. • Maintain documentation including GRNs, MRNs, stock registers and reconciliation reports. • Train and supervise storekeepers, helpers, and other store personnel. • Monitor equipment, tools, and asset inventory, ensuring proper issue and return tracking. • Support in developing SOPs for inventory control and warehouse operations. • Maintain safety and housekeeping standards across all storage locations. • Assist in forecasting storage space requirements and planning for expansion, if required. COMMUNICATION & WORKING RELATIONSHIPS Internal: • Procurement, Planning, Project Execution, QS, Estimation & Commercial, QAQC, Finance, Safety, Legal and Audit Teams External: • Vendors, Transporters, Auditors and Government Authorities (if applicable) FRAMEWORKS, BOUNDARIES & DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY The Assistant Manager – Stores operates under the guidelines of the organization’s inventory control policies, ERP system procedures, and safety regulations. Key decision-making authority includes: • Approving issuance of materials as per authorized requests. • Verifying and endorsing stock entries and documentation accuracy. • Making decisions related to material storage methods, space optimization, and handling protocols. • Recommending disposal or return of non-moving/damaged stock to management. • Escalating critical material shortages, discrepancies, or safety concerns to senior management. • Operational decisions for day-to-day store activities fall within the role's authority. Strategic decisions, vendor escalations, or policy deviations require higher-level approvals. QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE • Diploma or bachelor’s degree in materials management / logistics / engineering / supply chain. • 6–10 years of experience in store or warehouse operations, preferably in construction or infrastructure projects. Experience working with ERP inventory systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) • 3 to 5 years of mandatory experience in the UAE in a similar role. SKILLS & COMPETENCIES • Inventory control and stock management • ERP and warehouse management systems • Analytical and reconciliation skills • Leadership and team supervision • Documentation and record-keeping accuracy • Knowledge of safety and material handling standards • Ensures inventory accuracy and quality • Prioritizes tasks and ensures timely material delivery • Resolves stock discrepancies and logistics delays efficiently • Supervises and motivates store staff • Coordinates effectively with internal teams and suppliers • Adhering to procurement policies, legal standards, and ethical practices in all purchasing activities.