Business Operations Specialist – Operations & Supply Chain

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Sri Lanka.

📋 Description

• Assist an emerging food and beverage startup that is preparing for expanded retail distribution.

• Oversee supply chain functions, including procurement, manufacturing, logistics, inventory management, and fulfillment.

• Manage schedules for ingredient procurement and manufacturing processes.

• Handle purchase orders, supplier timelines, and procurement specifications.

• Monitor production progress from raw materials to finished products.

• Organize freight logistics, shipment schedules, and delivery timelines.

• Collaborate with co-manufacturers and external vendors to ensure timely production and shipping.

• Supervise inventory levels across manufacturing sites, warehouses, and fulfillment centers.

• Assist in demand planning and inventory replenishment efforts.

• Work closely with 3PL partners to ensure accurate and timely order fulfillment.

• Maintain precise inventory records and operational documentation.

• Identify and report on inventory shortages, delays, fulfillment issues, and operational challenges.

• Develop and document operational workflows, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and supply chain processes.

• Recognize process bottlenecks and suggest enhancements.

• Act as the key operational liaison for manufacturers, suppliers, freight carriers, warehouses, and logistics partners.

• Monitor outstanding tasks and ensure follow-up on commitments.

• Keep founders updated on issues and potential solutions.

• Utilize AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, and others for documentation, planning, communication, research, and operational analysis.

• Identify repetitive tasks suitable for automation and strive for continuous operational efficiency improvements.

• Collaborate closely with founders while receiving direction from an Operations Manager.

⛳️ Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in supply chain, procurement, operations, logistics, or related roles involving physical products.

• Strong practical knowledge of procurement, purchase orders, manufacturing coordination, freight, logistics, and 3PL operations.

• Experience in monitoring inventory, managing replenishment, maintaining accurate records, and supporting demand planning or forecasting initiatives.

• Proven capability to independently coordinate with manufacturers, suppliers, freight providers, warehouses, and other external partners.

• Ability to create, document, and enhance operational workflows and SOPs.

• Strong sense of ownership and capacity to juggle multiple operational priorities, ensure follow-through on commitments, and identify issues independently.

• Familiarity with AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or similar platforms, with the ability to integrate AI into daily operational activities.

• Excellent written English and strong communication skills.

• Experience in consumer packaged goods (CPG), Food & Beverage, manufacturing, retail operations, or other environments involving physical products is highly preferred.

• Must be able to work during overlapping hours with the client's operational schedule.

• Expected to attend in-person training sessions for the first 3.5 weeks.

• Commitment to inclusive collaboration with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

🏝️ Benefits

• In-person training programs during the initial 3.5 weeks.

• Details regarding benefits and compensation will be provided during the offer process.