Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement
Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement

Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement

Leicester Full-Time 54000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead supply chain transformation and continuous improvement initiatives across e-commerce and logistics.
  • Company: Dunelm is the UK's top homewares retailer, dedicated to making home life lovelier for customers.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a supportive culture, opportunities for growth, and a chance to innovate in a dynamic environment.
  • Why this job: Join a team focused on operational excellence and digital transformation, impacting customer satisfaction and business growth.
  • Qualifications: Experience in supply chain management, digital transformation, and leadership; degree in a related field preferred.
  • Other info: Be part of a company committed to sustainability and continuous improvement in a fast-paced industry.

The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.

Overview

Home. There’s no place like it. And there’s no feeling like helping people create the joy of feeling truly at home. At Dunelm, that’s what we do. We’re the UK\’s number one choice for homewares because we make home life lovelier for our customers. And the caring and encouraging culture we\’ve created makes this a place you\’ll feel right at home too.

We are the UK’s Number One homewares retailer offering c85,000 productsbuilding a consumer-focused total retail business that delights customers through our multichannel operation.

We are determined in our plans to increase further expansion of the business to more customers, shopping more frequently, with more choice, enhanced digital and physical services, and new capabilities to innovate and operate at pace in a fast-changing landscape. In developing the business for the long-term benefit of our customers, we are investing in our supply chain, stores and technology to improve the customer proposition as we progress.

Department Overview:

Our Continuous Improvement (CI) team is responsible for enhancing efficiency, quality, and innovation within the business by identifying and implementing process improvements.

Their key accountabilities include streamlining workflows, applying Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, analysing performance data, driving change management, and creating a culture of problem-solving and innovation.

They work closely with departments such as Operations, IT, People, Finance, and Customer Service to optimise processes, reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction, and support business growth. Through collaboration and data-driven decision-making, the CI team ensures the organisation remains agile, competitive, and continuously evolving.

What you\’ll be doing

The Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement is responsible for driving operational excellence, efficiency, and scalability across the e-commerce, fulfilment, warehousing, and last-mile delivery ecosystem.

This role focuses on identifying and implementing best practices, optimising logistics operations, enhancing digital transformation, and creating a culture of continuous improvement.

The leader in this role will ensure that the supply chain remains agile, cost-effective, customer-centric while supporting business growth, influencing senior stakeholders and evolving market demands.

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

  • Develop and implement a continuous improvement strategy across fulfilment centres, warehousing, and last-mile delivery operations.
  • Utilise Lean, Six Sigma, and automation strategies to optimise order fulfilment, inventory management, and logistics processes.
  • Identify bottlenecks in e-commerce fulfilment and retail store replenishment and implement solutions to improve order accuracy, speed, and cost-efficiency.
  • Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as order cycle time, fulfilment accuracy, on-time delivery, and cost per order.
  • Establish standardised operating procedures (SOPs) for warehousing, picking, packing, and shipping processes.

Transformation, Digitalisation & Automation

  • Lead supply chain digital transformation initiatives, including automation, robotics, AI-driven forecasting, and advanced warehouse management systems (WMS & TMS).
  • Drive the implementation of real-time tracking, IoT-enabled warehouse technology, and AI-powered inventory optimisation.
  • Optimise the use of data analytics and predictive modelling to enhance supply chain visibility, improve demand planning, and reduce waste.
  • Assess and implement the Business identified Automation strategy into the fulfilment aspects of Dunelm, leading the Automation strategy in its optimised state, from conception, build, go live and achievement of the Return on investment (ROI).

E-commerce Fulfilment & Logistics Optimisation

  • Enhance last-mile delivery strategies to improve customer experience, reduce costs, and optimise route planning.
  • Strengthen partnerships with third-party logistics (3PLs), courier services, and delivery aggregators to scale operations efficiently.
  • Implement omnichannel fulfilment strategies, including Buy Online Pickup In-Store (BOPIS), and Same-day Delivery models.
  • Improve reverse logistics and returns management processes to streamline customer returns and reduce costs.

Strategic Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Develop a high-performing team who are bold and brave in what they do, through coaching, mentoring and training continuous improvement specialists and operational leaders, raising the bar on everything they do.
  • Collaborate with operations, people, IT, customer service, finance, and merchandising teams to influence and align supply chain transformation with business goals.
  • Lead cross-functional teams to execute large-scale projects, such as warehouse automation and demand-driven inventory strategies.

Sustainability & Risk Management

  • Implement sustainable warehousing and transportation practices, including green logistics and carbon footprint reduction initiatives.
  • Strengthen supply chain resilience by developing contingency plans for disruptions, demand spikes, and labour shortages.
  • Optimise supplier relationships and inbound logistics to enhance supply chain efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

What we\’ll look for in you

  • Strong experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and ERP platforms.
  • Demonstrated success in leading large-scale digital transformation and operational efficiency projects.
  • Strong leadership, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Experience in working with 3PLs, last-mile delivery providers, and omnichannel fulfilment strategies.
  • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in supply chain management, Business, Operations, or a related field.
  • A high level of experience in supply chain, logistics, fulfilment, or warehouse operations, with a focus on e-commerce and retail.
  • Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, process optimization, and automation technologies.
  • A proven track record of implementing an Automation strategy and significant investment from concept to go live, demonstrating the delivery of the ROI business case.

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Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement employer: Dunelm

At Dunelm, we pride ourselves on being the UK’s number one homewares retailer, fostering a caring and encouraging culture that makes every employee feel at home. As the Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement, you will have the opportunity to lead innovative projects that enhance operational excellence while benefiting from our commitment to employee growth through continuous training and development. With a focus on collaboration and sustainability, Dunelm offers a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly impact our mission to make home life lovelier for our customers.
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Contact Detail:

Dunelm Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, as these are crucial for the role. Consider obtaining certifications or attending workshops to demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in supply chain management and logistics, especially those who have experience in e-commerce. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to make connections that could help you stand out.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on the latest trends in digital transformation and automation within supply chains. Being knowledgeable about AI-driven forecasting and IoT technologies will show your forward-thinking approach to potential employers.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've led successful projects in operational efficiency or digital transformation. Highlighting measurable outcomes will demonstrate your ability to drive results in a similar role.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms
Lean methodologies
Six Sigma
Digital transformation
Operational efficiency
Data analytics
Predictive modelling
Cross-functional collaboration
Project management
Problem-solving skills
Supply chain optimisation
Customer-centric approach
Automation technologies
Third-party logistics (3PL) management
Omnichannel fulfilment strategies
Sustainability practices
Risk management
Coaching and mentoring

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in supply chain management, digital transformation, and continuous improvement. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and automation technologies.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for enhancing customer experiences through supply chain optimisation. Mention how your leadership skills and experience with cross-functional collaboration can contribute to Dunelm's goals.

Highlight Key Achievements: When detailing your work history, focus on quantifiable achievements related to operational efficiency and cost reduction. Use metrics to showcase your success in previous roles, such as improvements in order accuracy or reductions in fulfilment times.

Showcase Your Strategic Vision: Demonstrate your understanding of the current trends in e-commerce and logistics. Discuss how you would approach the challenges outlined in the job description, particularly in relation to digital transformation and sustainability initiatives.

How to prepare for a job interview at Dunelm

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As the Head of Supply Chain Transformation, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change, particularly in continuous improvement initiatives or digital transformations.

✨Understand Lean and Six Sigma Methodologies

Familiarise yourself with Lean and Six Sigma principles, as these will be crucial in your role. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've applied these methodologies to optimise processes and improve efficiency.

✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration

This role requires collaboration across various departments. Think of instances where you've worked with different teams, such as IT, finance, or operations, to achieve a common goal. Highlight your ability to influence and align diverse stakeholders.

✨Demonstrate Data-Driven Decision Making

Since the role involves analysing performance data and KPIs, be prepared to discuss how you've used data analytics to drive improvements in supply chain operations. Share specific metrics you've monitored and the impact of your decisions on business outcomes.

Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement
Dunelm
Location: Leicester
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  • Head of Supply Chain Transformation & Continuous Improvement

    Leicester
    Full-Time
    54000 - 84000 £ / year (est.)
  • D

    Dunelm

    5000+
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