Factory Warehouse and General Stores Lead

About SKF

SKF has been operating in India since 1923 and has evolved from a manufacturing company into a knowledge-driven engineering firm focusing on sustainable and competitive business excellence. The company operates five technology-centered platforms including bearings, units, seals, solutions, and services aimed at friction reduction, energy efficiency, and reliability. SKF is committed to innovative, value-added engineering solutions that align with sustainability goals.

Role Purpose

The Factory Warehouse and General Stores Lead is responsible for guiding and enhancing warehouse and stores operations to guarantee seamless manufacturing support. This role ensures efficient inventory management and aligns with global supply chain and lean manufacturing standards by promoting operational excellence through lean methodologies, digital technologies, and teamwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain consistent availability of indirect materials, tools, and maintenance spares to uphold uninterrupted production.
• Coordinate with production, maintenance, and supply chain teams to fulfill delivery commitments with quality, cost-effectiveness, and timeliness.
• Implement Lean techniques such as Kanban, Just-In-Time, 5S, and waste elimination within warehouse and stores.
• Contribute towards achieving Zero Accident, Zero Defect, and punctual delivery targets.
• Lead initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce costs in material handling and storage functions.
• Work to boost operational efficiency by minimizing losses and supporting overall equipment effectiveness.
• Collaborate with supply chain teams to improve responsiveness and service levels.
• Create and execute improvement plans in line with business and manufacturing strategies.
• Develop team capabilities through coaching, mentoring, and managing performance.
• Support workforce engagement and industrial relations, including interactions with employee representatives.
• Oversee receipt, storage, inventory control, and line feed processes for indirect materials.
• Optimize inventory by increasing turnover, reducing obsolete stock, and ensuring high accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with FIFO/FEFO policies and maintain traceability of materials.
• Manage staff including data entry operators, store personnel, and 3PL resources across shifts.
• Monitor and improve key performance indicators such as stock control, service levels, and administrative turnaround times.
• Guarantee safe storage and compliance with Environment, Health, and Safety guidelines.
• Define and update inventory standards to meet strategic and operational targets.
• Identify and manage the clearance of obsolete/non-moving inventory following company policies.
• Drive continuous improvement leveraging Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Lead digital transformation efforts such as ERP and Warehouse Management System enhancements and automation.

Performance Metrics

• Accuracy and turnover rates of inventory
• Material availability and minimizing downtime from shortages
• 5S compliance and warehouse audit scores
• Advancement of lean implementation and productivity gains
• Reduction in indirect inventory volumes and obsolescence
• Cost efficiency in managing shop supplies and indirect materials
• Accuracy and compliance of ERP/WMS data
• Safety with an emphasis on zero incidents
• Development and readiness of workforce succession

Essential Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management capabilities
• Comprehensive understanding of warehouse, inventory, and supply chain workflows
• Proficiency with ERP and WMS platforms such as SAP or Oracle
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and material flow management
• Knowledge of manufacturing financial and cost structures
• Analytical thinking, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities
• Experience managing industrial relations issues
• Ability to lead large teams comprising permanent and third-party workers
• Competency in talent development, coaching, and skill enhancement

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Production, or Industrial) or any graduate qualification; MBA preferred.
• Seven to twelve years of experience in warehouse, stores, or supply chain roles within manufacturing.
• Prior experience in heavy engineering or bearing manufacturing industries advantageous.
• Proven management of large teams including contract and third-party labor.
• Prior exposure to lean manufacturing practices and digital warehousing systems essential.