At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee and optimise the entire supply chain for a rapidly growing pet brand.
- Company: Join Denzel's, a dog-obsessed brand making waves in the pet industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, 25 days holiday, and a dog-friendly office.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities and free treats for your pup!
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team transforming operations in a high-growth environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in FMCG operations, strong leadership, and problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 72000 £ per year.
Denzel’s isn’t just another pet brand. It’s a high‑energy, dog‑obsessed cult (the friendly kind) built around Denzel – a Cocker Spaniel so loved it’s borderline ridiculous. Since launching in 2018, Denzel’s has gone from “cute startup” to “holy crap, they’re in M&S, Pets at Home, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Ocado” – while also building a digital pack of dog parents who love them almost as much as their dogs love snacks. We’re helping them in hiring a Head of Operations to oversee the entire operations function of the business. If you’re the kind of person who melts when a dog looks at you like you hung the moon, Denzel’s might be your natural habitat.
About the role: The primary responsibility will be to manage and optimise the end‑to‑end supply chain, which includes logistics, warehousing, and production, to support ambitious growth plans. You will play a pivotal role in driving operational change, owning the strategic direction of the channel. Reporting directly to the CEO & Co-Founder, you will be a key member of the senior leadership team, during an exciting time of growth for the brand. They’re looking for a passionate and driven individual who can take ownership of this department and transform Denzel’s supply chain into a best‑in‑class operation.
What you’ll be doing:
- Run the full supply chain show – from forecasting and production planning to procurement and stock management – keeping everything humming, even when seasonal madness kicks in.
- Shape the operational strategy for the business: what they do now to get sharper, and what they build for the future as they scale.
- Be the guardian of Unleashed, the inventory system – keeping stock levels tight, data clean, and write‑offs low.
- Nurture the supplier relationships that keep this whole thing moving, and build new ones as they grow.
- Be the connective tissue between Ops, Finance, Sales, and Marketing – making sure everyone’s aligned on production, launches, budgets, and reporting.
- Manage and mentor two kick‑ass direct reports.
- Spot inefficiencies, fix them, repeat. They’re a scale‑up – there’s always something to make better.
Who we’re looking for:
- 5+ years in FMCG operations and supply chain, strength in procurement preferred.
- Previous experience holding senior positions within operations.
- Experience in leading and directing successful teams and operational change.
- Someone who thrives in high‑growth environments, happy to roll up their sleeves and tackle challenges.
- Strong problem‑solving and reasoning skills, comfortable with ambiguity and change.
- Confident in budgeting & forecasting.
- Experience managing products with shelf‑life constraints and stock rotation requirements.
- Strong experience with Unleashed, or an equivalent supply chain system.
- Flexible and hard‑working; this role requires some travel around the UK for supplier visits and meetings.
- Bonus points for export experience and secondary spoken languages.
- And of course, must be dog person (otherwise, we’re not sure we can trust you).
What’s in it for you:
- Salary: £65,000 – £72,000 DOE
- 3 days per week in a Wanstead office (2 days WFH)
- Flexible working hours
- 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays)
- Extra time off at Christmas
- Enhanced parental leave
- Real opportunities to learn, grow and build your career
- A dog‑friendly East London office. Free treats for your pup (if you have one – if not, free snacks to hand out at the dog park).
Head of Operations - Denzel's employer: Up World
Denzel's is an exceptional employer that thrives on passion and innovation in the pet industry, offering a vibrant work culture where dog lovers can truly feel at home. With flexible working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, and real opportunities for professional growth, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive environment. Located in East London, the dog-friendly office not only welcomes your furry friends but also provides free treats, making it a unique and enjoyable workplace for all team members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations - Denzel's
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Denzel’s. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for pets! When you get the chance to meet with the team, let your love for dogs shine through. Share stories about your furry friends and how they inspire your work ethic.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss operational strategies! Brush up on your knowledge of supply chain management and be ready to share your ideas on optimising processes. Denzel’s is looking for someone who can think ahead!
✨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 the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations - Denzel's
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Pets:Denzel’s is all about that dog-loving vibe, so let your passion for pets shine through in your application. Share any personal stories or experiences that highlight your love for dogs and how it connects to your professional journey.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Operations role. Highlight your experience in FMCG operations and supply chain, especially any achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive operational change and manage teams effectively.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your cover letter, keep it clear and concise. We want to see your personality, but also your understanding of the role and how you can contribute to Denzel’s growth. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point!
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. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Up World
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the end-to-end supply chain processes, especially in FMCG. Brush up on logistics, warehousing, and production strategies that can support Denzel's ambitious growth plans.
✨Show Your Passion for Pets
Denzel’s is all about dogs, so let your love for pets shine through during the interview. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your connection to animals, especially if they relate to operational roles.
✨Prepare for Operational Challenges
Think of examples from your past where you’ve tackled inefficiencies or led operational changes. Be ready to discuss how you would approach challenges specific to a high-growth environment like Denzel’s.
✨Connect with the Team Spirit
Since this role involves collaboration across various departments, be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully worked with teams in the past. Highlight your experience in aligning operations with finance, sales, and marketing.
