Job-ID: 1073362Category: WholesaleLocation: Scunthorpe, South Humberside, United Kingdom; Manchester, Lancashire, United KingdomPosted: 2026-10-29Closes: 2026-11-05Wholesale Delivery Lead – DRSUp to 85,000 (pro rata) plus great benefits (Work Level 4)Fixed-term contract/secondment until February 2028Scunthorpe/Manchester | hybrid working (you'll spend around two days a week working from one our offices or out visiting our partners, with at least one day each week based in Scunthorpe)We're looking for a Wholesale Delivery Lead to join Co-op Wholesale on a fixed-term contract until February 2028 to help deliver one of the biggest regulatory changes affecting our industry. You'll lead the implementation of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) across our wholesale operation, bringing together teams including Commercial, Supply Chain, Finance, and Technology to make sure our business and partners are ready for the change.
Why this role mattersThe DRS will play an important role in creating a more sustainable future. In this role, you'll help make sure our Co-op Wholesale business and partners are prepared for this major change. We'll look to you to turn complex project requirements into practical actions while helping to create a smooth transition from delivery to completion.
What you'll doLead the end-to-end delivery of DRS across our Wholesale businessCo-ordinate readiness planning, implementation activity, and transition into BAUBuild engagement with senior leaders, colleagues, and wholesale partnersManage risks, issues, dependencies, and key business decisionsOversee partner communications and readiness activitiesWork closely with our Technology teams to make sure business requirements are delivered effectivelyCo-ordinate business testing, assurance, and governance activitiesProvide clear reporting on delivery progress, readiness, and performanceSupport the development of future operating models and ownership structuresWhat you'll bringWe're committed to making our roles as accessible as possible, so we only ask for the minimum criteria.
To thrive here, you'll need to bring: Experience working within a wholesale, franchise, or partner-led retail environmentExperience delivering large-scale business, regulatory, or technology-enabled changeExperience managing complex plans, risks, dependencies, and governance processesStrong partner management and influencing skillsConfidence working with senior leaders and external partners up to Board levelThe ability to translate complex information into clear actions and decisionsA collaborative, pragmatic, and results-focused approachWhy Co-op? At Co-op, we're owned by our members.
And because we're owned by you, we can do right by you. So when you join us, you're not just taking a job, you're joining a movement. We're an organisation that puts people and communities first, and we're powered by purpose.
We want this to be a place where you can thrive, so you'll also receive benefits such as: A company car or 6,000 car allowancePrivate healthcare28 days holiday (pro rata) plus bank holidaysA pension with up to 10% employer contributions30% discount on Co-op products and 10% off other brandsStream – early access to a percentage of your pay as you earn itVirtual healthcare including GP appointments, mental health support, nutrition and fitness advice24/7 colleague support serviceTraining and support for your development and career progressionCycle-to-work schemePlease note: if you're a current Co-op colleague applying for this role, you'll receive benefits aligned to your home role. A place you'll belongWe're building diverse teams that reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone, and our support centre is an inclusive environment where all our colleagues can thrive.
If you have a disability, we'll make reasonable adjustments to support you through the recruitment process. We're also proud to be part of the Disability Confident scheme - if you're disabled and you meet the minimum criteria for this job, we'll guarantee you an interview.
Learn more about our recruitment process at our commitments to diversity, inclusion and wellbeing at part of your application, you'll need to complete an online assessment. This assessment typically takes 15-20 minutes. If you're a current Co-op colleague, this does not need to be completed.
Wholesale Delivery Lead - DRS in Manchester employer: The Co-Operative Group
Co-op Legal Services is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its employees and the communities it serves. With a strong focus on professional development, you will have access to coaching and training opportunities, alongside a competitive benefits package including private healthcare and a generous pension scheme. Our inclusive work culture fosters diversity and belonging, making it a rewarding place to build your career in Manchester, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Bristol, or Sheffield.
