Head of Operations & Supply Chain

Elevation Procurement & Supply Chain division are delighted to be partnered with developing and growing wholesale & distribution business, seeking a Head of Operations & Supply Chain for their global operations, based in Hull.

Step into a pivotal leadership role where you will shape the operational and supply chain strategy for a growing organisation with ambitious plans. This is a high-impact position, responsible for ensuring end-to-end efficiency, resilience, and cost-effectiveness across operations, logistics, Supply Chain planning (S&OP), and global sourcing.

About the Role:

As Head of Operations & Supply Chain, you will own the strategic direction and performance of the entire supply chain and operational function, from sourcing and procurement through to distribution and customer fulfilment. You will lead and develop teams, optimise processes, and drive continuous improvement to deliver service excellence, cost savings, and operational scalability. Working closely with senior leadership, you will play a key role in supporting growth, margin improvement, and competitive advantage.

Key Responsibilities:

* Develop and implement a comprehensive operations and supply chain strategy aligned with business objectives and growth plans.

* Lead end-to-end supply chain activities including procurement, inventory management, demand planning, logistics, and distribution.

* Design and optimise logistics networks, transportation plans, and warehousing operations to improve service levels and reduce cost-to-serve.

* Oversee inventory and demand forecasting processes to ensure availability, minimise stock-outs, and reduce excess and obsolete stock.

* Direct procurement and supplier management activities, including sourcing strategies, contract negotiation, and supplier performance reviews.

* Establish and monitor KPIs across operations and supply chain, using data to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.

* Lead low-cost country sourcing initiatives, building robust supply chains that balance cost, quality, and risk.

* Coach and develop operations and supply chain teams, embedding a culture of accountability, collaboration, and process discipline.

Key Requirements:

* Proven experience in a senior operations and supply chain leadership role, ideally at Head of level or equivalent.

* Strong track record in strategic supply chain management, including end-to-end design and optimisation.

* Demonstrable expertise in logistics and distribution planning, including network design and transport management.

* Hands-on experience in inventory management and demand forecasting within a complex, multi-product environment.

* Solid background in procurement, supplier relationship management, and sourcing, including contract negotiation and performance management.

* Experience leading low-cost country supply chains, including supplier identification, onboarding, and risk mitigation.

* Confident leader with the ability to manage and develop cross-functional teams and drive change across operations.

* Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and translate insights into action.

Desirable Skills:

* Experience within manufacturing, FMCG, or industrial distribution environments.

* Exposure to ERP and advanced planning systems, with a track record of improving processes through technology.

* Familiarity with lean, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methodologies.

* Background in building resilience and sustainability into supply chains, including risk management and ESG considerations.

* Experience working within multi-site or international operations structures.

Qualifications:

* Degree-level education in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Business, Engineering, or a related discipline.

* Professional supply chain or procurement qualification (e.g. CIPS, APICS, CSCP) preferred.

* Evidence of ongoing professional development in operations, logistics, or supply chain management.

If you are a strategic, commercially focused operations and supply chain leader ready to take ownership of a critical function, we would like to hear from you.