At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise the entire supply chain and operational strategy.
- Company: Dynamic retail company based in Harrogate with a hybrid work model.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team and develop your leadership skills.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in senior operations or supply chain leadership roles.
The predicted salary is between 52500 - 57500 £ per year.
The Role
Reporting directly to senior leadership, the Head of Operations will own the end-to-end supply chain and operational strategy. This includes procurement, inbound logistics, fulfilment oversight via external partners, and delivery performance across multiple markets. The role requires a balance of strategic thinking and day-to-day execution, with a strong emphasis on building resilient partnerships and driving continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and optimise the full supply chain, from supplier management through to final-mile delivery
- Develop and maintain strong, performance-driven relationships with third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and freight forwarders across international markets
- Act as the primary owner of 3PL performance, ensuring service, cost, and scalability requirements are consistently met
- Own operational KPIs including cost, service levels, lead times, and inventory efficiency
- Identify and implement process improvements to support scalability and peak trading demands
- Collaborate cross-functionally with commercial, product, and finance teams to align operational strategy with business goals
- Manage forecasting, stock planning, and inventory risk to ensure optimal availability and working capital efficiency
- Oversee contract negotiation and performance management of external partners
- Lead, mentor, and develop a small, high-performing operations team
About You
- Proven experience in a senior operations or supply chain leadership role, ideally within e-commerce or consumer goods
- Strong track record managing and influencing 3PL providers and freight forwarding partners
- Commercially astute, with the ability to balance cost control and customer experience
- Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, evolving environment with a hands-on approach
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Data-driven mindset with experience using KPIs and metrics to inform decisions
- Experience scaling operations within a growing business is highly desirable
Head of Operations in York employer: Zachary Daniels
Contact Detail:
Zachary Daniels Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in York
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the retail and operations space. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s supply chain strategies. Show them you understand their operational challenges and how you can help optimise their processes.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings; proactively reach out to companies you admire. Express your interest in their operations team and share how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative and show genuine interest in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations in York
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Operations. Highlight your experience in supply chain management and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to optimise operations and manage 3PLs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've driven continuous improvement and built strong partnerships in previous positions.
Showcase Your Data Skills: Since the role requires a data-driven mindset, don’t forget to mention your experience with KPIs and metrics. Share how you've used data to inform decisions and improve operational efficiency in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zachary Daniels
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Make sure you understand the end-to-end supply chain process, especially in relation to procurement and logistics. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've optimised supply chains or improved delivery performance.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Since the role emphasises building strong partnerships with 3PLs and freight forwarders, prepare to share stories that highlight your ability to manage and influence these relationships. Think about how you've navigated challenges and maintained performance-driven partnerships.
✨Be Data-Driven
Familiarise yourself with key operational KPIs relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to inform decisions in previous roles, particularly around cost control, service levels, and inventory efficiency. This will show your analytical mindset.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Team Development
As you'll be leading a small operations team, think about your leadership style and how you've mentored others in the past. Prepare examples of how you've developed high-performing teams and fostered a culture of continuous improvement.