Digital Transformation Lead Supply Chain (KTP Associate) in Chesterfield

The University of Derby's Derby International Business School, in partnership with Ocean King, is offering an exciting career development opportunity to manage and deliver a challenging strategic Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project. Based at Ocean King's premises in Derby, you will be employed by the University as a KTP Associate but work under the terms and conditions of the company.

We are seeking a Digital Transformation Lead Supply Chain (KTP Associate) to deliver a high-impact 24-month project. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a major digital transformation programme, applying cutting-edge technologies such as ERP systems, AI and advanced analytics to modernise supply chain, warehouse and logistics operations.

Working at the heart of the business, you will take ownership of the full project lifecycle, from diagnosing current operations through to designing, implementing and embedding innovative solutions that improve efficiency, sustainability and commercial outcomes. This role offers direct engagement with senior decision-makers and the opportunity to lead a strategic digital transformation at scale within a real-world operational environment.

Using your knowledge and skills to support the business and achieve specific project aims, you will receive ongoing support from a Supervisor at Ocean King and an Academic Supervisor and Academic Lead from the University of Derby to help you deliver. A personal training and development budget will also be available for you to access, as well as receiving access to the same training opportunities and facilities as University staff.

This is an exciting career development opportunity to deliver a high-impact project, working with academic experts and industry professionals and gaining hands-on experience.

About You

We are looking for a highly motivated and analytical individual who is ready to take ownership of a complex transformation project. This role would suit someone who enjoys working at the intersection of data, operations and technology and is keen to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world, commercial environment.

You will have a Masters degree in a relevant subject, such as supply chain management, operations, logistics, business analytics or a closely related discipline. Alongside this, you will bring practical experience or demonstrable understanding of supply chain or warehouse operations and a clear interest in how digital tools can be used to drive performance improvements.

Just as importantly, you will be an effective communicator who can build strong working relationships across a wide range of stakeholders. The role involves collaborating with senior managers, operational teams, academic experts and senior partners, so you will need the confidence and interpersonal skills to engage people at all levels, explain complex ideas clearly, and bring others with you on the journey of change.

We are particularly interested in candidates who are proactive, solutions-focused and commercially aware. You should be comfortable taking initiative, working independently and making decisions while also recognising when to seek input and collaborate. An interest in emerging technologies, such as AI, data analytics or ERP systems, as well as an awareness of sustainability and ESG considerations in supply chains, would be highly beneficial.

This role is particularly suitable for someone who is excited by the opportunity to make a tangible impact within an organisation and apply innovative thinking to improve operations, enhance sustainability and help shape the future direction of a growing business.

About Us

We have one simple promise to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better. The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region.

We have some of the best university facilities in the UK, achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research, and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 making us one of the top universities in the country, recognised for our outstanding student experience and outcomes.

Financially strong and seriously ambitious, we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career, with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website via the Apply button. Closing date: Monday, 13 July 2026.

The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.

The University of Derby is committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion, regardless of age, disability, trans status, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief (or none), sex and sexual orientation.