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- Tasks: Lead and shape the returns function in a fast-growing furniture retailer.
- Company: Dynamic furniture retailer with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: High visibility, impactful role, and opportunity to build a team from scratch.
- Other info: Blend strategy and operations while driving measurable results.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by transforming returns into a commercially driven operation.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in retail or logistics and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Are you ready to step into a role where you can build and shape a returns function from the ground up? This is a rare opportunity to build a function from the ground up in a fast-growing furniture retailer. In this role, you’ll define and deliver the end-to-end returns strategy, shaping how the business reduces returns, improves operational efficiency, and maximises value recovery. You’ll have real influence across the organisation, working cross-functionally and externally to transform returns into a commercially driven, well-controlled operation.
You’ll own the returns function, leading strategy, operations, and team performance. This is a highly commercial and operational leadership role, combining data-driven decision making with hands-on process improvement and stakeholder management.
Key Responsibilities- Define and deliver the overall returns strategy, driving reductions in returns rate and cost to serve
- Establish and track key KPIs
- Oversee inspection, triage, and processing within agreed SLAs
- Optimise stock disposition routes
- Implement best-in-class returns processes and SOPs
- Deliver a seamless and transparent returns journey
- Lead and develop a returns team
- Senior experience in retail, furniture, logistics, or supply chain
- Strong understanding of reverse logistics, warehouse operations, and operational planning
- Commercial mind-set with a focus on cost control and value recovery
- Proven experience leading teams and managing cross-functional stakeholders
- The chance to build and shape a critical function from scratch
- High visibility and impact across a growing, ambitious retail business
- A role that blends strategy, operations, and commercial decision-making
- The opportunity to lead change, drive measurable results, and build a high-performing team
Head of Returns employer: RL People
Contact Detail:
RL People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Returns
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those who work in returns or logistics. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in managing returns and improving processes. This will give you an edge when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for the interview! Research the company’s current returns process and think of ways you could improve it. Bring your ideas to the table; they’ll love your proactive approach!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are keen to join us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Returns
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Returns role. Highlight your experience in retail, logistics, or supply chain, and showcase any achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive operational efficiency and reduce returns.
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. Talk about your commercial mindset and how you've successfully led teams in the past. Make it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Data Skills: Since this role involves data-driven decision making, be sure to mention any relevant experience you have with KPIs, analytics, or process improvement. We want to see how you can use data to optimise returns and improve operations.
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 this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at RL People
✨Know Your Returns Strategy
Before the interview, make sure you understand the key components of a successful returns strategy. Research best practices in reverse logistics and think about how you would apply them to the role. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership, so prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and managing cross-functional stakeholders. Think about challenges you've faced and how you motivated your team to achieve results.
✨Be Data-Driven
Since this position involves data-driven decision making, come prepared with examples of how you've used KPIs to drive improvements in previous roles. Discuss how you track performance and what metrics you consider most important for a returns function.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
The company is looking for someone with a commercial mindset. Be ready to talk about how you’ve balanced cost control with value recovery in your previous roles. Show that you understand the financial implications of returns and how to optimise processes for better profitability.