Head of Retail Supply Chain

Location: Old Trafford Stadium

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.

We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

The Purpose

We’re seeking a strategic, hands-on, and forward-thinking Head of Retail Supply Chain to lead the design, execution, and continuous improvement of our end-to-end global retail supply chain. This pivotal role is key to ensuring our fans around the world receive the products they love — whether it’s from our stadium store, e-commerce platform, licensing partners, or wholesale channels.

You will be responsible for overseeing everything from inbound logistics and sourcing through to inventory management, demand planning, distribution, and reverse logistics. You will also lead supply chain operations for personalisation services and ensure our supply chain supports an excellent customer and fan experience, while driving commercial growth.

The Role

Key Responsibilities

• Supply Chain Strategy & Optimisation
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive, agile supply chain strategy across all retail channels
  • Introduce best practices and leverage technology to drive innovation and efficiency
  • Stay informed of industry trends, particularly within global sports retail
• Demand Planning & Inventory Management
  • Lead forecasting and planning in collaboration with Retail, Commercial, and Marketing teams
  • Balance product availability with cost-effective stock management
  • Implement and manage a robust Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process
• Inbound Logistics & Sourcing
  • Oversee inbound logistics and relationships with global suppliers and manufacturers
  • Ensure timely, ethical, and compliant sourcing of all products
• Outbound Logistics & Distribution
  • Manage outbound distribution across all retail channels, including 3PL performance
  • Ensure smooth last-mile delivery to stadium stores, satellite locations, e-commerce customers, and wholesale partners
• Personalisation & Special Services
  • Manage stock and logistics for personalisation services (e.g., shirt printing)
  • Collaborate with eComm and Stadium Retail leads to embed personalisation into the customer journey
• Customer Service & Reverse Logistics
  • Work closely with Customer Care to resolve delivery and return issues efficiently
  • Develop effective reverse logistics processes for returns, exchanges, and faulty goods
• Operational Excellence & Technology
  • Ensure accuracy and integrity of stock data across ERP, WMS, and other systems
  • Drive continuous improvement and cost reduction through lean supply chain principles
  • Ensure high system performance, including effective integration with the Jonas Stock System
• Risk Management & Compliance
  • Maintain audit readiness and oversee supplier/finance reconciliation processes
  • Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, ensuring continuity in the face of disruption
• Leadership & Collaboration
  • Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing supply chain team
  • Foster strong cross-functional relationships with key internal stakeholders, including Retail, Commercial, Marketing, Licensing, Finance, and Operations

The Person:

Experience

• 5+ years in end-to-end supply chain leadership roles, ideally in fast-paced retail, FMCG, or sports merchandise
• Strong background in demand planning, inventory, and logistics (inbound/outbound)
• Proven experience with 3PLs, sourcing, and managing personalisation supply chains
• Skilled in supply chain systems (ERP, WMS, planning tools) and data-driven optimisation
• Track record of partnering with customer care teams to improve delivery and returns processes

Skills & Attributes

• Strategic Thinker & Problem Solver – Able to anticipate challenges and build scalable solutions
• Data-Driven Leader – Confident in using data and analytics to inform decision-making
• Commercially Minded – Understands how supply chain impacts revenue and customer experience
• Inspirational Leadership – Builds, motivates, and manages high-performing teams
• Excellent Communicator – Strong at influencing stakeholders across all levels
• Skilled Negotiator – Able to secure favourable terms with suppliers and partners
• Collaborative Doer – Hands-on, solution-focused, and thrives in a team-oriented culture
• Adaptable & Resilient – Performs under pressure and responds quickly to change, especially during product launches or major events

What We Offer

At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:

• Annual incentive scheme
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+
• Workplace Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
• Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
• Enhanced family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
• A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

Our Commitment to You:

At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Ready to Join Us?

If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please submit your application by Thursday 17th July 2025.

Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks.

If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you.

It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.