At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and enhance planning tools for our retail distribution network using data analysis.
- Company: Join Gist, a key player in the M&S Group's food logistics.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 20% M&S discount, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Hybrid working with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food logistics while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of warehouse processes and advanced Excel skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
At Gist, we're proud to be part of the M&S Group, the logistics engine behind M&S Food. From our distribution centres to our transport operations and support functions, we connect people, technology and expertise to ensure the right products reach the right stores at the right time. As we continue to invest in our people, technology and network, there's never been a more exciting time to join Gist and help shape the future of food logistics.
The Opportunity
Our Change Delivery team have an exciting opportunity for a Productivity & Systems Analyst where you will provide systematic support for our excel based planning tool across our retail distribution network. This pivotal role will see you delivering a consistent planning solution across the network, enabling clear comparison between contract performance and the integration of data into our Spotfire data warehouse.
What you'll be doing
- Reporting into the Head of Warehouse Change, you will work closely with retail distribution warehouse teams where you will support in the standardisation of current planning tools while collaborating with the optimisation team to define, develop and shape scalable, technology-led solutions.
- Develop and implement new RDC warehouse productivity planners ensuring consistency.
- Produce clear toolkits and guides to enable local utilisation and less reliance on central operations.
- Ensure planner control and protection preventing corruption or deviation from standardised processes.
- Drive standardisation in tool usage across the network.
- Streamline input processes and develop supporting tools to reduce manual effort for colleagues.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define future state of warehouse planning tools, including requirements to transition away from Excel.
- Manage stakeholder relationships across internal IT teams and third-party providers to support delivery and ongoing improvement of planning solutions.
- Support other functions in the development of systemic rotas, ensuring reliable inputs into reporting systems.
- Own and deliver weekly warehouse performance insights to support informed decision-making.
- Develop and maintain standardised data feed into the chosen data warehouse to improve data accessibility and interpretation.
- Support the evolution of the tool introducing A.I driven capabilities to enhance usability, provide intelligence support and improve reporting insights.
- Assess and validate future solutions to transition from Excel into a standalone system driven warehouse resource allocation platform.
What we're looking for
To be successful in your application you will have a strong understanding of warehouse processes including intake, picking and dispatch and proven operational experience knowledgeable in operational performance, operating KPIs and resource planning. You will have proven data analytical experience with advanced Excel capability including VBA and Macros. It goes without saying that you will have strong communication skills able to build strong working relationships with stakeholders at all levels, with natural problem solving and influencing skills. It would be desirable, however not essential if you have an understanding of Blue Yonder Dispatch Solution, understand operational data stores and data warehouses and an interest in A.I tools such as Copilot or Gemini.
Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Location: This role can be based anywhere in the UK, individuals must be comfortable with hybrid working and travel as and when needed.
What’s in it for you?
- 20% M&S discount on most things from furniture, fashion and food
- 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (rising with length of service)
- Discounted rates on healthcare cash plan
- Attractive annual bonus scheme, based on M&S performance and personal objectives
- Auto Enrolment Pension or competitive Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and life assurance (up to 4 times salary)
- Amazing perks and discounts via our App to major restaurants and retailers
- Access to a wide range of wellbeing support – including our Employee Assistance Programme
- A first-class welcome with a tailored induction and a wide range of training schemes to help with your learning and development
- Cycle to work scheme
Why Gist?
When you join Gist, you're joining a business that plays a critical role within the M&S Group. You'll have the opportunity to influence meaningful change, work alongside experienced leaders and contribute to one of the UK's leading food supply chains. Our culture is built around our values of being Progressive, Accountable, Collaborative and Ethical, creating an environment where people are trusted, supported and encouraged to grow. Whether you're leading a site operation, delivering transformation or shaping future strategy, your work will make a real difference.
Our commitment to inclusion
At Gist, we believe our differences make us stronger. We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please let us know. We'll work with you to ensure you have the support you need.
Productivity and Systems Analyst employer: Gist Limited
Gist Limited is an exceptional employer located in Barnsley, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises safety and efficiency in warehouse operations. With a strong focus on employee engagement and development, we provide competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including healthcare and employee assistance, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking growth in the FMCG sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Productivity and Systems Analyst
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Gist Limited and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Gist Limited!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Gist Limited keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Productivity and Systems Analyst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Gist Limited:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Gist Limited. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gist Limited
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Gist Limited.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Gist Limited that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Gist Limited. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
