Full job descriptionInsight Employment are seeking a full-time Inventory Operative for a client of ours based in Nether Heyford, Northampton.
Due to the location, you would need to have your own transport or live locally.
The Client: -
Is a fast-growing FMCG importer and e-commerce business, operating across leading online marketplaces and retail channels. They work with a broad portfolio of brands, combining strong commercial capability with a data-driven approach to buying, trading, and growth. Their focus is on building scalable, high-performing categories through strong supplier partnerships, efficient operations, and a results-led culture.
Role purpose: -
To maintain stock accuracy and support warehouse quality by investigating stock discrepancies, resolving inventory issues, verifying goods-in receipts, and carrying out random checks across picking and packing. The role helps ensure stock is received, stored, picked and despatched accurately, with clear records of issues and corrective actions.
Key Responsibilities: -
Inventory investigation and issue resolution
*Investigate stock discrepancies, missing stock, incorrect locations, stock shortages and unexpected stock balances.
*Carry out physical stock checks and compare findings against warehouse management system (WMS) records.
*Review stock movements and transaction history to identify where errors have occurred.
*Resolve issues within agreed authority levels, escalating unresolved or recurring problems to the relevant manager.
*Record investigation findings, actions taken and outcomes to provide a clear audit trail.
*Identify common causes of errors and recommend practical improvements to prevent repeat issues.
Goods-in receipt checks
*Check goods-in receipts against purchase orders, delivery paperwork and WMS records.
*Verify product codes, quantities, condition and, where applicable, batch numbers and expiry dates.
*Investigate shortages, over-deliveries, incorrect products, damaged goods and booking-in errors.
*Confirm received stock is correctly labelled, recorded and put away in the correct location.
*Liaise with goods-in colleagues and relevant departments to resolve receipt discrepancies.
*Keep affected stock on hold where required until discrepancies have been resolved and release authorised.
Random picking and packing checks
*Carry out random checks on picked orders to confirm the correct products and quantities have been selected.
*Check packed orders for accuracy, product condition, suitable packaging and correct labels.
*Record errors and arrange corrections before despatch wherever possible.
*Provide timely feedback to team leaders so issues can be addressed with the relevant colleagues.
*Monitor recurring errors and highlight products, locations or processes requiring additional checks.
Stock accuracy and control
*Complete scheduled cycle counts, targeted stock checks and recounts.
*Check stock locations for mixed products, incorrect labels, unrecorded stock and damaged items.
*Support investigations into replenishment errors, picking shortages and customer-reported discrepancies.
*Ensure inventory adjustments are supported by evidence and authorised before processing.
*Maintain accurate records of checks, discrepancies and outstanding actions.
Communication, standards and safety
*Work closely with goods-in, picking, packing, replenishment and despatch teams to resolve issues promptly.
*Provide clear handovers on open investigations and stock awaiting action.
*Follow warehouse procedures, safe working practices and housekeeping standards.
*Handle stock carefully and report damage, hazards or unsafe practices.


Skills and experience
*Previous experience in warehouse operations, inventory control or stock checking.
*Strong attention to detail and an organised, methodical approach.
*Ability to investigate discrepancies and follow issues through to resolution.
*Confidence using a WMS, handheld scanners and basic Excel.
*Good numeracy, record-keeping and communication skills.
*Ability to work independently and prioritise tasks in a busy warehouse.
*Willingness to challenge errors constructively and work with colleagues to improve accuracy.


Key performance measures
*Stock accuracy and completion of planned inventory checks.
*Timely investigation and resolution of discrepancies.
*Completion and quality of goods-in, picking and packing checks.
*Accurate investigation records and compliance with adjustment authorisation procedures.
*Reduction in repeat errors and overdue outstanding issues.
Authority and accountability
The Inventory Operative is responsible for identifying, investigating and documenting inventory issues, and correcting them within agreed permissions. Stock adjustments, write-offs and release of held stock must follow the relevant approval process.
Shift/Hours: -
Monday – Friday 09:00am – 17:00pm
Rate: -
£15.00 per hour
If this sounds like your next career move don’t delay send an up-to-date CV today.
Unfortunately, due to the high number of responses we receive it is not always possible to respond to every application. If you do not hear back from us within 7 days, please assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion. We will however retain your details on file and may contact you should another suitable vacancy arise.