Interim Supply Chain Manager ( 3-6 months )

Founded in 2003, Wasabi's vision is to lovingly create and serve delicious Asian food for a busy nation. Wasabi now has 40 thriving restaurants across London and major UK cities and 4 in New York. In 2019, we introduced Wasabi Home Bento, launched exclusively in Sainsbury's. Building on that success, the grocery business broadened its reach to Tesco in September 2022, followed by exciting launches in Co-op and Morrisons in 2024. Today, Wasabi proudly stands as the No. 2 chilled ready-meal brand, setting new standards for quality and innovation. Wasabi's menu is celebrated for its unique character, exceptional freshness, and bold flavours. Our diverse range is designed to delight a wide audience, delivering both comfort and excitement with every bite. We have an ambitious 5-year growth strategy, focusing on new restaurants, franchise partnerships, and international expansion.

As we embark on our next phase of growth and innovation, we are thrilled to offer an exciting opportunity for an Interim Supply Chain Manager to join our team based in Park Royal. Please note this is a 3-6 month fixed term contract role.

The Role:

The Supply Chain Manager will assume a pivotal leadership role in directing end-to-end supply chain operations within a multi-channel, multishift, seven days/week operational environment. This position entails the direct management of functional leads warehouses, yard, logistics, despatch, material planning and the indirect oversight of a broader team of approximately 50 members. The incumbent will be responsible for formulating and executing strategic supply chain initiatives, leveraging expertise in Material Requirements Planning systems, yard and warehousing optimisation, efficient logistics management, and streamlined picking processes. Reporting to the Head of Procurement & Supply Chain, this individual will be instrumental in driving supply chain efficiency, cost optimisation, and enhanced service delivery across all operational facets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive supply chain strategy to optimise performance, mitigate costs, and elevate customer satisfaction across diverse distribution channels.
• Provide direct management, mentorship, and professional development to the team members directly and indirectly reporting to the role.
• Cultivate a collaborative and high-performance culture within the extended team of approximately 50 individuals.
• Ensure the integrity of demand forecasting and the robustness of supply planning methodologies to align supply with demand while effectively managing inventory levels in our internal warehouse as well as external warehouses.
• Coordinate with the Procurement team on suppliers MOQ, costs, delivery schedules and escalations.
• Oversee all warehousing and yard activities, ensuring optimal storage solutions, stringent inventory accuracy, and efficient space utilisation within a multi-shift operational framework.
• Implement best solutions for cleanliness and space management.
• Manage stock levels across internal and external warehouses.
• Strategically manage inbound and outbound logistics operations, optimising transportation networks, carrier relationships, and delivery schedules across varied distribution channels to our grocery partners as well as restaurants.
• Ensure the efficient and timely execution of order fulfilment and despatch processes, meeting the demands of a continuous, 7 days operational schedule as well as quality and compliance.
• Plan and manage most efficient multishift dispatch operations that will bring cost savings year on year and meet MLOR and quality requirements.
• Strategically leverage and optimise current processes as well as oversee the implementation of new systems (scanning, EDI & MRP) to ensure accurate material availability, production scheduling, and inventory control.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators across the supply chain, identify areas for enhancement, and implement data-driven solutions to improve operational efficiency.
• Regularly report and communicate the KPIs and progress to relevant stakeholders.
• Engage collaboratively with Procurement, Production, Sales, and other internal departments to ensure seamless supply chain integration and alignment with overarching business objectives.
• Take charge of ad hoc projects or processes when necessary.
• Proactively identify and mitigate potential disruptions within the supply chain and develop comprehensive contingency plans.
• Continuously evaluate and refine supply chain processes to maximise efficiency, minimise waste, and enhance operational agility.
• Manage various projects related to supply chain operations: warehouse capacity increase, warehouse automation, logistics routes mapping etc.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant regulatory requirements and compliance standards governing supply chain operations.

Our Requirements:

• Extensive experience in supply chain management, preferably within the food manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience managing complex, multi-channel supply chains, including direct-to-consumer (retail) and business-to-business (restaurants) logistics.
• Deep understanding of warehouse operations, inventory management techniques, and transportation management principles.
• Strong knowledge of forecasting methodologies, production planning, and inventory optimization techniques.
• Experience implementing and utilizing ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and Transportation Management Systems (TMS).
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and generate actionable insights.
• Proficiency in using data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, BC).
• Understanding of supply chain costs, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Proven ability to negotiate favourable terms with vendors and logistics providers.
• Familiarity with relevant food safety standards and regulations (e.g., HACCP).
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.
• Ability to communicate effectively at all levels, both internally and externally.
• Ability to think strategically, identify root causes of problems, and develop effective solutions.
• Ability to make sound and timely decisions and take ownership of outcomes.
• Ability to work effectively across different departments and influence stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Proactive in identifying and implementing opportunities for improvement.

In Return we provide:

• A great working environment
• Pension scheme
• Refer A Friend Scheme
• Free Sushi or hot food (vegan options available)
• 50% discount in our Branches
• Employee Assistant Programme
• Long Service Awards
• Wagestream - a financial wellbeing benefit that lets you access your pay as you earn it in real time and manage savings
• Life Assurance
• Cycle To Work
• Free on-site parking
• A variety of discounts (shopping, food & drink, entertainment and health & fitness) through Perkbox
• The opportunity to develop your skills within a growing company.

(Please note that certain benefits do not apply to fixed term contracts.)

Our people make us who we are. If you're looking for an exciting challenge and this sounds like the job for you, please apply today as we can't wait to hear from you.

COME ROLL WITH US!