At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global operations, optimising logistics and fulfilment for a premium cycling brand.
- Company: Join Rapha, a globally recognised cycling brand with a passion for design and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and cycling perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced, high-growth environment while loving what you do.
- Qualifications: Senior operations experience in e-commerce or retail, with a knack for multi-territory management.
- Other info: Enjoy on-site amenities and significant staff discounts while being part of a cycling community.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Swi-tch is working as an exclusive partner of Rapha, a globally recognised premium cycling brand renowned for its design-led approach, technical innovation, and deep connection to cycling culture worldwide. Rapha operates an international, multi-channel business spanning DTC, Retail & Wholesale. As the business continues to scale globally, we are supporting Rapha in the search for a Head of Operations to lead and strengthen its global logistics and fulfilment capability.
This is a senior, highly visible role at the heart of the business. You’ll bring structure, control, and commercial thinking to a complex, multi-territory operation, working closely with senior stakeholders and global 3PL partners.
Key Responsibilities- Own end-to-end global operations across warehousing, fulfilment, inventory, freight, and returns
- Lead and optimise 3PL-managed UK and US distribution centres
- Drive service, cost, and scalability improvements
- Own cross-border execution, compliance, and margin protection
- Partner closely with Finance, Technology, Product, and Trading on operational decision-making
- Contribute to the ongoing evolution of operational tools, data, and reporting
- Senior operations leader (Head of Operations / Logistics or similar)
- Background in e-commerce, retail, apparel, or consumer goods
- Proven experience managing multi-territory, 3PL-led operations
- Commercially astute, calm under pressure, and decisive
- Comfortable operating in fast-moving, high-growth environments
- Competitive salary and bonus structure
- Generous annual leave with additional time off linked to sport and cycling
- Flexible working culture, including dedicated time to ride
- Annual clothing allowance and Rapha Cycling Club membership
- Pension, life assurance, and health & wellbeing support
- Significant staff discounts, cycling benefits, and industry perks
- On-site amenities including subsidised lunches, barista coffee, and bike support
Head of Operations in City of London employer: Swi-tch
Contact Detail:
Swi-tch Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the cycling and logistics industries, especially those connected to Rapha. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into Rapha's operations. Understand their logistics challenges and think about how your experience can solve them. Show us you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your commercial thinking. Bring examples of how you've optimised operations in the past, especially in multi-territory settings. We want to see your impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Head of Operations role. Highlight your experience in managing multi-territory operations and any relevant achievements in logistics or e-commerce. We want to see how you can bring structure and control to our operations!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for cycling and how your background aligns with Rapha's values. Let us know why you're the perfect fit for this senior role and how you can drive improvements in our global operations.
Showcase Your Commercial Acumen: In your application, be sure to highlight examples where you've made commercially astute decisions in fast-paced environments. We’re looking for someone who can think strategically and make impactful decisions under pressure, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Swi-tch
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the logistics and fulfilment processes specific to the cycling industry. Familiarise yourself with key terms like 3PL, inventory management, and cross-border execution. This will not only show your expertise but also your genuine interest in Rapha's operations.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to drive service improvements and cost efficiencies. Think about past experiences where you made a significant impact on operational performance. Being able to discuss these in detail will demonstrate your commercial thinking and decision-making skills.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with senior stakeholders, practice how you would communicate and collaborate with different teams. Be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully partnered with finance, technology, and product teams in previous roles to achieve operational goals.
✨Embrace the Fast-Paced Environment
Rapha is looking for someone who thrives under pressure. Prepare to share instances where you've navigated challenges in high-growth settings. Highlight your calmness and decisiveness in those situations to reassure them that you can handle the demands of a rapidly scaling business.
