Inventory Solutions Development Manager (VMI) for South Region

Job Posting:

Since 1953, Ferguson has been a source of quality supplies for a variety of industries. Together We Build Better infrastructure, better homes and better businesses. We exist to make our customers’ complex projects simple, successful, and sustainable. We proactively solve problems, adapt and grow to continuously serve our customers, communities and each other. Ferguson, a Fortune 500 company, is proud to provide best-in-class products, service and capabilities across the following industries: Commercial/Mechanical, Facilities Supply, Fire and Fabrication, HVAC, Industrial, Residential Trade, Residential Building and Remodel, Waterworks and Residential Digital Commerce. Ferguson has approximately 36,000 associates across 1,700 locations. Ferguson is a community of proud associates who operate with the shared purpose of building something meaningful. You will build a career that you are proud of, at a company you can believe in.

Job Title: Inventory Solutions Development Manager (VMI) for South Region

Position Overview

The Inventory Solutions Development Manager is responsible for driving strategic growth, expanding market presence, and strengthening Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) Program performance across the region!

This role partners closely with leadership, customers, and cross functional teams to evaluate new opportunities, implement VMI programs, and ensure consistent execution aligned with organizational strategy.

Location: You can work out of any major hub in the South (R03) Region - ideal locations: Nashville, Knoxville, Houston, Birmingham, Montgomery, Tallahassee, Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, Florida but other locations in the South Region will work too.

Primary Responsibilities

• Partner with Regional Director and General Managers to evaluate, qualify, implement, and monitor VMI programs across the region.
• Conduct customer site visits to research and analyze business opportunities consistent with the organization's long range and strategic plans.
• Evaluate future geographic expansion opportunities and measure the success of new market entry.
• Collaborate on execution plans for markets in alignment with Customer Group and Area VMI strategy.
• Prepare business proposals—including financial modeling, product files, and legal documentation—and present recommendations to senior management.
• Work closely with National Accounts and VMI leadership teams to drive growth, ensure consistent customer experience, and maintain margin integrity.
• Serve as a liaison between National VMI strategy and local area/customer needs.
• Partner with Category Management to evaluate and select vendors, expand offerings, and continuously assess channel options.
• Lead all aspects of the development of key projects and is accountable for the successful closure of business deals.
• Train onsite customer personnel and internal teams on VMI startup procedures and day to day operational processes.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and progress of strategic business targets.
• Demonstrate software solutions for inventory management as a value added service to clients.
• Develop new processes to meet project requirements and design solutions that align with financial and operational criteria.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and information packages for meetings with potential clients and business partners, ensuring accuracy and suitability for external distribution.
• Maintain strong relationships with key internal and external decision makers.
• Assist with special analyses in areas such as operational efficiency, market penetration, and profitability as needed.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• 5+ years of business development experience preferred; prior VMI, Branch Management, Operations, or Sales experience strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent work experience will be considered.
• Proven track record of achieving strong sales results through effective engagement with existing customers and new prospects.
• Strong commitment to exceptional customer service and a drive to exceed sales targets.
• Excellent negotiating, problem solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational, planning, and follow-up abilities.
• Solid business judgment and high integrity.
• Ability to deliver effective presentations and project recommendations.
• Valid driver’s license required; role involves regular travel to customer headquarters, jobsites, lunch and learn sessions, and industry events or trade shows.
• Proficiency with technology and the ability to quickly learn new software platforms (Microsoft Office 365, Power BI, Salesforce