Network Optimisation Manager - SC/LOG/NOM01

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Network Optimisation Manager within the Supply Chain team. The Network Optimisation Manager will drive continuous improvement initiatives, support business growth, and ensure the network remains agile, resilient, and capable of meeting evolving customer and operational demands. Demonstrating a highly analytical and strategic approach to lead the development and continuous improvement of our operational network.

This role is responsible for analysing network performance, identifying opportunities for efficiency and cost reduction, and implementing optimisation strategies that enhance service delivery, customer experience, and business performance. Competent in working cross-functionally with Operations, Planning, Commercial, Technology, and Finance teams to design and optimise network solutions that align with organisational objectives. They will leverage data-driven insights, forecasting, modelling, and performance metrics to improve capacity utilisation, resource allocation, and operational effectiveness across the network.

Every day you will …

• Lead network optimisation activities by analysing customer demand, delivery volumes and distribution centre capacity to improve service performance, reduce operating costs and support efficient route, zoning and delivery channel decisions.
• Manage the governance, approval and configuration of delivery locations, acting as the subject matter expert for delivery network design while ensuring operational, commercial and customer requirements are met.
• Own and optimise key logistics systems and reporting tools, including the DF and Site Survey databases and customer service dashboards, ensuring data accuracy, compliance, continuous improvement and enhanced decision‑making capability.
• Manage third‑party carrier performance and transport costs across the network, supporting demand smoothing initiatives, seasonal planning, cage return programmes and cost‑reduction opportunities while ensuring optimal service delivery.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with NHS customers, logistics partners and internal stakeholders, providing operational insight, resolving service issues, supporting supply chain optimisation projects and driving continuous improvement across the distribution network.

What can we offer you?

• Hybrid working opportunities, giving you the flexibility to work collaboratively in the office and remotely.
• Annual bonus schemes, long service, and colleagues’ recognition awards.
• 27 days holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional 5 days.
• In‑house training, support, and access to external qualifications to maximise your potential.
• 1 day of paid well‑being leave and free access to the 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Generous pension scheme (with us contributing 12% when you contribute 6%).
• Access to our Flexible Benefits Scheme, where you can choose from a variety of benefits such as Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover, Income Protection, Health Cash Plan, Dental Insurance, and additional pension contributions that suit you.
• 2 days of paid volunteering leave allowing you to give back to your community.
• Access to many discounts from the Blue Light Card to NHS Discounts.

NHS Supply Chain, who are we?

Our role is to support the NHS to save lives and improve health. We are a part of the NHS family, and our role is to source, deliver and supply healthcare products, services and food for NHS trusts and healthcare organisations across England and Wales. We serve every NHS Trust and operate a national network of distribution centres, managing relationships with more than a thousand suppliers and delivering more than 8,000,000 orders each year to more than 17,000 locations. Doing all of this on behalf of the NHS gives NHS staff more time to focus on their main priority of providing excellent patient care.

What skills will help you thrive in this role?

• Experienced in service logistics and supply chain operations, with a strong understanding of planning, coordination, and process optimisation to support efficient service delivery.
• Highly analytical and numerically minded, able to interpret complex data, identify trends, and translate insights into practical business actions and improvements.
• Demonstrates exceptional attention to detail and diligence, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and high‑quality outcomes across all areas of responsibility.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other IT systems, including the use of pivot tables, lookups, and data analysis tools to support reporting and decision‑making.
• Effective people and stakeholder manager, capable of working independently or collaboratively, building strong relationships, and driving results through initiative and self‑motivation.

Our Inclusive Commitment

At NHS Supply Chain, we are committed to building an inclusive environment where difference is not only valued, but celebrated, giving everyone the opportunity to thrive in their career. Developing our people is key to our success, so if this role sounds like the right next step in your career but your experience doesn’t match perfectly with the job advert, we encourage you to still apply.