Job Description

We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Product Manager to lead the strategy and execution of our demand planning and inventory management systems within the auto parts retail ecosystem. In this role, you will drive solutions that ensure accurate forecasting, optimized inventory levels, and part availability across our extensive network of stores, distribution centers, and digital channels. Your work will directly impact product availability, working capital efficiency, and customer satisfaction in both our DIY and commercial (DIFM) segments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and own the product vision and roadmap for demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and replenishment systems.
• Work cross-functionally with merchandising, supply chain, store operations, and data science teams to understand business needs and develop scalable, data-driven solutions.
• Lead initiatives to reduce out-of-stocks, improve inventory turnover, and optimize safety stock for a highly complex catalog of automotive parts.
• Drive adoption of advanced demand forecasting models that incorporate seasonality, vehicle fitment data, regional demand patterns, and promotional activity.
• Collaborate with engineering and data teams to build platforms and tools that support real-time inventory visibility, allocation, and replenishment decisions.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as forecast accuracy, service levels, inventory turns and working capital metrics.
• Influence executive stakeholders and lead prioritization efforts across a portfolio of demand planning and inventory initiatives.
• Stay ahead of industry best practices in inventory science, machine learning-based forecasting, and supply chain digitization.

Qualifications:

• 8+ years of product management experience, with deep expertise in demand planning, inventory management, or supply chain systems.
• Proven success managing complex product portfolios with large SKU counts and variable regional demand—preferably in auto parts, retail, or CPG.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with a track record of driving improvements in forecast accuracy and inventory efficiency.
• Deep understanding of planning systems, including statistical forecasting, MRP, DRP, and multi-echelon inventory optimization.
• Comfortable collaborating with engineering, data science, and supply chain teams to build scalable solutions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field; advanced degree (MBA, MS in Supply Chain, etc.) is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with auto parts retail, including understanding of vehicle fitment data and its impact on inventory management.
• Hands-on experience with tools like Blue Yonder, SAP IBP, Relex, or similar demand planning and inventory platforms.
• Familiarity with omnichannel inventory strategies and store/DC fulfillment models.
• Exposure to machine learning or AI applications in forecasting and planning.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be at the forefront of transforming how we manage and move millions of auto parts across a vast retail and commercial network. Join a product-led organization where you’ll help solve real-world supply chain challenges, deliver measurable business value, and improve customer outcomes every day.

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Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for ANY employer. This position is ineligible for employment visa sponsorship. This includes initial or change of employer filings of any kind, including but not limited to H-1B, TN, or E-3.

Location & Work Availability:

This position is 4 days in office, 1 day remote per week, based at our corporate headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina (North Hills)

Benefits Summary:

We believe in supporting our Team Members and those they love through comprehensive health & wellness benefits. Learn more here: https://jobs.advanceautoparts.com/us/en/benefits

Company Overview:

Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installers and do-it-yourself customers. Advance operates 4,500+ stores and distribution centers in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Company also serves independently owned CarQuest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico and various Caribbean Islands. When you join our team, you become one of 60,000 knowledgeable and experienced Team Members who are committed to providing outstanding customer service to our customers, communities, and each other every day.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.

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