Job Description
The Head of Inventory and Logistics Strategy is responsible for leading the strategic direction, governance, and performance of inventory, stock purchasing, and logistics policy functions. This role ensures robust control, data accuracy, and process compliance across all areas of inventory and logistics, supporting both commercial objectives and operational excellence.
This role will develop and implement policies, lead reporting and forecasting strategy, and oversee stock purchasing across all product categories. It will work closely with operational, commercial and finance teams to align supply-side decisions with wider business strategy.
Responsibilities
* Oversee inventory management and stock control processes.
* Ensure inventory data integrity and consistency.
* Develop and implement demand forecasting processes.
* Lead the SAP system and related processes; and drive evolution of current systems and development of new inventory-based systems.
Procurement & Purchasing Strategy
* Oversee the stock purchasing function to ensure supply continuity across all categories.
* Lead supplier performance reviews and ensure commercial terms are in place and monitored.
* Ensure all purchasing activity supports cost efficiency and stock optimisation.
* Oversee category-level sourcing strategies, supplier onboarding, and contract compliance.
Reporting, Analysis & Forecasting
* Design and deliver clear, actionable reporting on inventory, purchasing activity, and logistics KPIs.
* Work with Finance, Commercial and Operational teams to align stock investment with budgets and trading forecasts.
* Develop stock modelling tools to improve forward planning and responsiveness to operational demand.
Team Leadership & People Management
* Provide clear leadership and direction to the inventory and stock purchasing teams.
* Establish KPIs and performance metrics across the department.
* Support team development through coaching, training and succession planning.
Logistics Strategy and Process
* Develop and own logistics policies, processes and controls across the organisation.
* Ensure logistics and inventory operations comply with relevant legislation, data protection, and quality standards.
* Identify and drive strategic improvements across the logistics function.
Stakeholder Collaboration
* Work closely with the Logistics Senior Management Team to ensure alignment between policy and execution.
* Support contract mobilisation and new supply chain partner onboarding with robust inventory and logistics plans.
Person Specification
* Significant experience in inventory, supply chain or logistics leadership roles (ideally 5+ years).
* Strong commercial and analytical background with proven success.
* Demonstrable experience in developing inventory and logistics policies and processes.
* Exceptional stakeholder communication skills, particularly with senior leadership.
* Advanced user of ERP systems (e.g. SAP) and Excel-based reporting tools (e.g. PowerBI).
* Experience in a multi-site environment.
* Lean Six Sigma Certified.
* Level 4-5 Inventory Management / Stock Control IoSCM qualified.
* Level 3 CIPS qualified.
Benefits
* Free Parking.
* 33 days holiday (25 + Bank holidays).
* Employee Bonus Scheme.
* Healthcare Cashback Plan.
* Employee Assistance Programme.
* Cycle to Work Scheme.
* Company Contribution Pension Scheme.
* Parental Leave and Pay.
* Employee Reward and Recognition.
* Learning and Development Opportunities.
* Gym & Retail Discounts.
* Life Assurance Benefit.
Diversity Statement
We value diversity and promote an inclusive environment where everyone is treated equally and fairly. We welcome applications from diverse candidates regardless of their background, disability or gender.