Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead supply chain transformation initiatives to enhance efficiency and service quality.
- Company: Join an expanding retailer focused on innovation and operational excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of up to £80k and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving impactful change in supply chain management.
- Qualifications: Degree in Business or related field with 5+ years in supply chain optimisation required.
- Other info: Hands-on leadership style and strong analytical skills are essential for success.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 64000 £ per year.
Job Description
Role: Head of Supply Chain Transformation
Location: South West
Type: Full time on site
Salary: up to £80k
Contact: annabel.hotchkiss@forsythbarnes.com
Overview of the Head of Supply Chain Transformation
Looking for a new challenge?
We are partnering with an expanding retailer who are seeking a Head of Supply Chain Optimisation to join their team!
This is a strategic leadership role focused on transforming and enhancing the end-to-end supply chain to support innovation, scalability, and operational excellence across both retail and online channels.
As the Head of Supply Chain Optimisation, you’ll lead initiatives that improve efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and service quality—driving both short-term wins and long-term transformation. You’ll be a strategic thinker and hands-on leader, bringing a customer-centric, analytical, and collaborative approach to supply chain design, performance, and innovation.
You will take ownership of the function, working closely with the CSO.
Responsibilities of the Role:
Network Optimisation Strategy
- Develop and execute a comprehensive supply chain optimisation roadmap.
- Improve network performance across cost, quality, and delivery speed.
- Ensure supply chain capabilities align with the broader business strategy.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Finance, Retail, Logistics, IT, and other key teams to identify and implement optimisation opportunities.
- Lead workshops and performance reviews to drive alignment and continuous improvement.
- Model and assess network scenarios to guide strategic decisions.
Innovation & Automation
- Champion the integration of digital tools and automation across operations.
- Stay ahead of industry trends and apply best-in-class practices.
- Oversee key infrastructure and business continuity initiatives.
Performance Monitoring
- Define and track KPIs to monitor and enhance supply chain performance.
- Deliver actionable insights and recommendations to senior leadership.
- Conduct operational deep dives to identify areas for improvement.
Scalability & Growth Enablement
- Ensure the network is agile, resilient, and capable of scaling with growth.
- Support capacity planning and long-term cost optimisation.
- Align network design with the company’s growth and innovation roadmap.
Requirements of the role:
Essential Experience
- Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or a related field.
- 5+ years in supply chain optimisation or network design, ideally in retail.
- Experience in omnichannel environments and operational roles (Planning, FMCG, etc.).
- Strong understanding of planning, inventory, and execution.
Essential Skills
- Exceptional project management and organisational skills.
- Strong analytical and data interpretation capabilities.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management.
- High-energy, hands-on leadership style with a collaborative mindset.
- Advanced Excel skills and Microsoft Office proficiency.
Desirable
- Financial acumen and P&L experience.
- Familiarity with tools like Tableau, Power BI, SAP APO/IBP.
- Knowledge of sustainable supply chain practices.
- Experience with Supply Chain Guru or similar planning tools.
Head of Supply Chain Optimisation (Ref: 187549) employer: Forsyth Barnes
Contact Detail:
Forsyth Barnes Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Supply Chain Optimisation (Ref: 187549)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the supply chain sector, especially those who have experience in retail and omnichannel environments. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and best practices.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific tools mentioned in the job description, such as Tableau, Power BI, and SAP APO/IBP. Consider taking online courses or tutorials to enhance your skills in these areas, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in supply chain optimisation during interviews. Think of specific examples where you successfully improved efficiency or reduced costs, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership style by highlighting instances where you've led cross-functional teams or workshops. Emphasise your collaborative approach and how it has led to successful project outcomes, as this aligns well with the role's requirements.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Supply Chain Optimisation (Ref: 187549)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in supply chain optimisation and network design. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic thinking and leadership skills, particularly in retail and omnichannel environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supply chain transformation. Address how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the role, such as improving efficiency and driving innovation. Be sure to mention your collaborative approach and any relevant tools you are familiar with.
Highlight Key Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements that reflect your ability to enhance supply chain performance. For example, mention specific KPIs you have improved or successful projects you have led that resulted in cost savings or increased service quality.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Forsyth Barnes
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As a Head of Supply Chain Optimisation, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've developed and executed supply chain strategies in the past, focusing on innovation and scalability.
✨Highlight Cross-Functional Collaboration
This role requires working closely with various departments. Be ready to discuss your experience in collaborating with teams like Finance, Retail, and IT. Share specific instances where your collaboration led to successful optimisation outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Strong analytical capabilities are essential for this position. Bring data-driven examples that showcase your ability to interpret complex information and make informed decisions that improved supply chain performance.
✨Prepare for Scenario Modelling Questions
Expect questions about network scenarios and strategic decision-making. Brush up on your experience with modelling and assessing different supply chain scenarios, and be prepared to discuss how these influenced your previous roles.
