About us

Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 130 locations across 13 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.

One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

How we reward you

401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%

Healthcare plans to support your needs

Virtual doctor visits

Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program

15% Associate Discount

Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program

Associate Assistance Program

RK Cares Associate Hardship Program

24/7 Chaplaincy Services

Company paid YMCA Family Membership

What You’ll do

As an Inventory Planning Manager, you will be leading the inventory planning team to drive profitability and manage inventory with comprehensive analysis of the business and identification of local and regional opportunities. This position makes assortment-related recommendations to the buyers and VPs of Purchasing.

• Develop and lead the implementation of strategies and processes to maximize sales, inventory turnover, and profitability.
• Manage, lead, optimize, and enhance the Open-to-Buy process across channels to drive efficiency of inventory and overall business performance.
• Develop and execute inventory plans by managing inventory flow based on sales and opportunity.
• Train and develop management teams on thought processes to analyze and forecast sales, margin, and turn relative to plan, trend, and history.
• Review projections and analysis with planners for consistency, strategic alignment, and thought process.
• Responsible for leading the planning team to meet inventory, NMROI, and turn targets.
• Proactively identify and create solutions against foreseeable risks or opportunities.
• Develop strong partnerships with internal business leaders to partner on the success of the company.
• Partner with sourcing and purchasing to ensure execution of inventory strategies.
• Lead associates in a way that exemplifies the leadership principles taught in Rural King’s Thrive Leadership Program.
• Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Actively participate in learning initiatives offered such as training programs, workshops, and webinars. Leverage these opportunities to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current on the latest developments.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively.
• Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King’s Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes

Essential Qualities for Success

• At least 5 years of leadership in retail buying or planning experience and bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Highly proficient with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn Oracle ERP Systems.
• Strong understanding of retail business practices.
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to coach and mentor team members.
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• Ability to navigate and access all facilities.
• Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.
• Close vision for computer-related activities.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.