At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead inventory strategy and optimise supply chain performance at Bonnier Books UK.
- Company: Join a dynamic publishing company with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy private health insurance, flexible working, and 28 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and a vibrant workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while driving process improvements.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in inventory management and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
Location: 5th Floor, HYLO, 105 Bunhill Row, London, EC1Y 8LZ
Working pattern: Hybrid - minimum of two days per week in the office; up to three days per week working from home
Department: Inventory & Operations
Salary: £50,000 - £55,000 per annum, depending on experience
Duration: Twelve-month fixed-term contract
General Summary
We are seeking an experienced and commercially focused head of inventory to lead inventory strategy and supply chain performance across Bonnier Books UK on a twelve-month maternity cover basis. Responsible for overseeing inventory management, stock strategy, and operational performance across the business. The role provides strategic direction and decision-making support across reprints, stock planning, availability, and wider supply chain activity, while ensuring strong day-to-day operational delivery through the Inventory & Operations team.
Working closely with Publishing, Sales, Production, Finance, and Distribution, the successful candidate will drive stock optimisation, cost control, process improvement, and service performance, while ensuring continuity across key operational workflows and business-critical projects.
Key responsibilities
- Lead inventory management, with accountability for stock optimisation, print strategy, and overstock/remainder management
- Ensure strong title availability and efficient stock flow from print through to customer fulfilment
- Oversee operational cost management and identify opportunities to improve efficiency across the supply chain
- Monitor and improve operational performance across distribution and fulfilment, ensuring effective delivery during key trading periods
- Act as the senior escalation point for inventory and supply chain issues, driving timely resolution and informed decision-making
- Drive process improvement, reporting enhancements, and systems development across inventory and supply chain workflows
- Support key operational and strategic initiatives, including POD, ASR, cost optimisation, and international stock management
Qualifications and Experience
- Strong experience in inventory management, supply chain, or stock operations
- Experience within publishing, retail, FMCG, or another product-led environment
- Strong analytical, forecasting, and reporting capability
- Experience managing supplier relationships, operational budgets, and cost control
- Ability to prioritise effectively and operate confidently in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence across teams
- Experience leading, developing, and supporting teams
- Knowledge of distribution, warehouse operations, and print supply chains would be advantageous
- Experience delivering process improvement or operational change initiatives would be beneficial
- Commercially aware, highly organised, and detail-oriented
- Proactive, collaborative, and calm under pressure
Company Benefits
- Private health insurance
- Holiday purchase scheme
- Contributory pension scheme
- 28 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Lively social committee hosting regular events
- Group Life cover - including 24-hour GP service
- Company-funded gym membership for all trade staff
- Comprehensive staff training and mentorship programmes
- Flexible working and flexible hours from day one of employment
- Additional holiday allowance accrued for long service – and a full bonus week of holiday to celebrate your 10th year at BBUK
- Enhanced family leave - with equal six months’ paid leave for all new parents
- Employee assistance programme available to all employees and their families
- Dedicated volunteering hours each year to support charities promoting literacy and reading for pleasure
- Cycle to work scheme with bike storage and changing facilities on-site at our London HQ
- Wellbeing programme and daily benefits such as fresh fruit and porridge in the office
If you are interested in this role, please apply via our website. We look forward to hearing from you.
Head of Inventory (Interim) in London employer: Bonnier Books UK
Bonnier Books UK is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of London with a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance. Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, generous holiday allowances, and robust training programmes, all while being part of a collaborative team dedicated to driving innovation in the publishing industry. With a strong focus on employee well-being and development, Bonnier Books UK provides a supportive environment where individuals can thrive and make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Inventory (Interim) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work in inventory or supply chain roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its inventory strategies. Show us you know your stuff by discussing how you can optimise stock flow and improve operational performance based on their current practices.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience in inventory management and how you've tackled challenges in the past. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that expertise to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining the team and ready to dive into the world of inventory management.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Inventory (Interim) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Inventory role. Highlight your experience in inventory management and supply chain, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your skills in stock optimisation and operational performance.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since the role requires strong analytical capabilities, be sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles. This will show us you can handle the forecasting and reporting aspects of the job.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bonnier Books UK
✨Know Your Inventory Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you brush up on your knowledge of inventory management and supply chain processes. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past, especially those that led to stock optimisation or cost control.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your analytical capabilities by bringing examples of how you've used data to drive decisions. Whether it's forecasting or reporting, be ready to explain how your insights have improved operational performance.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Since this role involves a lot of stakeholder management, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you can influence others and resolve conflicts, as these skills will be crucial in your discussions.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving abilities. Prepare examples where you've successfully navigated challenges in inventory management or supply chain issues, highlighting your proactive and collaborative approach.
