Head of International Logistics Development

Head of International Logistics Development

"Logistics network strategy definition, development and implementation
The perfect role for a talented individual with solutions design, operational excellence, programme management and operational leadership skills"

£80-100000 Excellent Benefits

Buckinghamshire HQ (Hybrid Working with some International Travel)

What do you know about solutions design for warehousing and distribution?

Hopefully, it's plenty as that knowledge will be essential for your success in this role for our client in Buckinghamshire.

But don't misunderstand; this isn't a solutions design role. It's far more than that as you'll be taking charge of our client's logistics and distribution network in the UK, EU, and APAC, developing, and implementing strategies and solutions which will transform our client's global operations and support ambitious growth plans.

Over the years, our client has built an impressive business manufacturing and supplying seasonal and promotions-led consumer products to leading retail, wholesale, and ecommerce channels. They've grown organically and through acquisition and now want to streamline and improve their logistics, warehousing, and distribution facilities. The UK facility needs to be automated. Then they would like a new DC in the EU - possibly Germany or Netherlands, then an APAC facility to service their Australian/Asian markets.

So that's where you come in.

Due to the nature of the role, our client has some essential specifics that you'll have to demonstrate in your background. You'll need to be familiar with wholesale, retail, and e-commerce operations for a start. Experience in 3PL is critical, and we mentioned solutions design earlier, as that's also a vital area of expertise they would like to see combined with programme/project management to drive and facilitate warehousing operational excellence and continuous improvement projects, guide and coach local operational and project teams. Most importantly you will also lead a programme of works in relation to process design and the implementation of MHE and automation within existing and new Distribution Centres.

Although this role has no direct reports, you will work in partnership with cross functional stakeholders and experienced warehousing and logistics colleagues across continents, to identify and develop scalable solutions to optimise operations and boost productivity.

This role would suit a degree educated, highly numerate and analytic logistics professional who possesses practical experience of 3PL solutions design in warehouse and material flow planning, automation and the associated cost modelling, analytics, and commercial business cases. This should ideally be combined with progression into logistics project/programme management. Finally, as this role is part of the strategic succession plan to VP level, our client is ultimately seeking candidates who also have strong operational leadership experience.

Exposure to logistics modelling tools (CLASS, CAST, Logility, Llamasoft) is essential. Advanced MS skills including Excel, Visio, Project and Powerpoint will be a prerequisite. A track record of planning and management of multiple projects, with demonstrable ROI will be critical to success. Prince2 and Black Belt Six Sigma would be advantageous. Experience of AutoCAD would also be advantageous

Whilst third party contract logistics solutions design experience, with the focus on warehousing, will be a key requirement, your operational excellence, project management and operational leadership experience may have been gained either within 3PL or inhouse within a FMCG retail or FMCG manufacturing environment. Exposure to pan European and International project management would be the icing on the cake.

Overall, this role will provide the platform for you to become a central part of our client's operations and lead to future progression opportunities to the top level of the business.

There's plenty more detail to discuss about this role, so please indicate your interest by emailing your CV tquoting reference LX 944991