Senior Supply Chain Manager

Our client is an established retail business seeking an experienced supply chain manager to take ownership of its end-to-end supply chain function for this role. This is a hands-on and commercially driven leadership role covering purchasing, supply chain operations, logistics, warehousing and distribution. The ideal candidate will be commercially astute, strong in sourcing and negotiation, and able to balance product availability, inventory, cost and service levels to support the wider business.

Key Responsibilities

End-to-End Supply Chain Management

• Lead the end-to-end supply chain function covering purchasing, supply chain operations, logistics, warehousing and distribution.
• Develop and implement supply chain strategies that support business growth, operational efficiency and commercial objectives.
• Ensure effective coordination between purchasing, warehouse, logistics, distribution and retail operations.
• Monitor product availability and ensure timely replenishment to support the retail network.
• Identify opportunities to improve supply chain processes, service levels and overall operational efficiency.

Purchasing & Supplier Management

• Lead sourcing and purchasing activities to ensure the right products are available at the right time and at competitive commercial terms.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and business partners.
• Lead supplier negotiations covering pricing, payment terms, service levels and other commercial arrangements.
• Evaluate supplier performance and identify opportunities for cost optimisation and improved service delivery.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders to align purchasing decisions with business requirements, inventory levels and commercial objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement in purchasing and replenishment processes, including the adoption of technology and automation.

Logistics, Warehouse & Distribution

• Oversee warehousing, logistics and distribution operations supporting the company's retail network.
• Ensure efficient inventory movement and distribution across locations.
• Work closely with warehouse and operations teams to optimise stock flow, storage and delivery processes.
• Monitor logistics performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and manage operating costs.
• Oversee internal and outsourced logistics resources to ensure service requirements are met effectively.
• Manage urgent operational requirements while maintaining cost and service efficiency.
• Ensure appropriate manpower and resources are available to support warehouse and distribution activities.

Commercial & Business Management

• Take a commercially driven approach to supply chain decision-making, balancing product availability, inventory, cost, revenue and margin.
• Monitor supply chain costs and identify opportunities to improve profitability and operational efficiency.
• Work closely with management and other business functions to support overall business objectives.
• Analyse supply chain performance and provide insights and recommendations to management.
• Participate in supplier meetings, industry networking and relationship-building activities as required.
• Build strong commercial relationships with external partners and vendors.

People Management & Leadership

• Lead, coach and develop the supply chain team.
• Set clear objectives and performance expectations across purchasing, operations and logistics.
• Monitor team performance and drive accountability across the function.
• Foster a collaborative, proactive and commercially focused team culture.
• Develop team capabilities and identify opportunities for process and organisational improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Procurement, Business, Operations or a related discipline.
• 8+ years of relevant experience in supply chain, procurement, logistics or related functions.
• Strong experience managing multiple aspects of the end-to-end supply chain, within a retail environment with store-driven operations, replenishment and distribution experiences.
• Proven experience in sourcing, supplier negotiation and vendor management.
• Good understanding of inventory management, warehousing, logistics and distribution.
• Strong commercial acumen, with the ability to understand the impact of supply chain decisions on P&L, revenue, margin and costs.
• Strong people management and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent negotiation, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Confident in building and maintaining relationships with suppliers and business partners.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Proactive, hands-on and comfortable operating in a fast-paced business environment.
• Comfortable traveling between different operational locations when required.