Returns Executive (Procurement)

Returns Executive (Procurement)

Department - Central Procurement

Reporting Manager – Procurement Lead

Job Purpose

The Returns Executive will be responsible for managing the end-to-end vendor return lifecycle, ensuring timely processing of return claims, coordinating reverse logistics, and minimizing inventory write-offs through effective execution and stakeholder management.

Key Responsibilities

1. Vendor Returns Management

Manage end-to-end return processes with pharmaceutical vendors.

Coordinate approvals, return authorizations, and documentation with vendors.

Track pending return claims and ensure timely closure.

2. Reverse Logistics

Plan and coordinate return pickups from warehouses.

Liaise with warehouse, transport, and vendor teams for smooth execution.

Monitor return shipment status until successful closure.

3. Near-Expiry Inventory Management

Identify SKUs approaching expiry.

Coordinate timely returns to vendors to minimize write-offs.

Track return eligibility as per vendor policies.

4. Reconciliation & Documentation

Reconcile physical returns against system records.

Ensure issuance and receipt of credit notes.

Maintain complete documentation for audits and compliance.

5. MIS & Reporting

Publish periodic dashboards covering:

Return value

Pending return ageing

Vendor-wise performance

Credit note status

Write-off prevention metrics

6. Cross-functional Coordination

Work closely with:

Procurement

Warehouse Operations

Finance

Supply Chain

Vendor Partners

to ensure timely execution of return activities.

7. Process Improvement

Identify bottlenecks in the return lifecycle.

Drive automation and process standardization initiatives.

Improve turnaround time (TAT) for vendor returns.

Desired Skills

Strong analytical and coordination skills

Excellent follow-up and stakeholder management

Good knowledge of MS Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, basic formulas)

Ability to work with large datasets

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Preferred QualificationBachelor's degree (B.Com/B.Sc/B.Pharm/BBA or equivalent)

1–3 years of experience in Procurement, Supply Chain, Warehouse Operations, or Vendor Returns

Experience in the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry will be preferred

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Return closure TAT

Vendor return recovery value

Near-expiry inventory returned vs. written off

Credit note realization

Pending return ageing

Vendor SLA adherence

Process accuracy and compliance