Head of Development & Innovation

About The Sofa Delivery Company

The Sofa Delivery Company, part of the DFS Group, is dedicated to being the premier two-person delivery service, focusing on providing exceptional customer experiences with meaningful products like sofas. Our team thrives on variety and challenge, making every day unique and fulfilling.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Head of Development & Innovation to spearhead strategic growth and transformation as we evolve into a successful third-party logistics (3PL) provider. This senior role requires a visionary leader who can convert strategic ideas into practical actions, identify untapped opportunities, and build a future-oriented business while maintaining our core practical and purposeful values.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of the Evolve strategy, managing transformational programs, reviewing operating models, and implementing ESG and sustainability initiatives.
• Drive innovation within our operational network, work practices, and business models.
• Facilitate 3PL expansion by acquiring new clients, enhancing customer performance, and designing scalable operational solutions.
• Analyze operational and financial metrics to detect trends and identify improvement opportunities.
• Develop and nurture high-performance teams guided by the ethos of continuous improvement (“Better Never Stops”).

Candidate Profile

• Demonstrated senior-level experience in logistics, supply chain, retail, or related sectors.
• Track record of successfully leading organizational transformation and change initiatives.
• Strong analytical capabilities coupled with commercial insight.
• Experience in business development with a preference for 3PL knowledge.
• Familiarity with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, sustainability practices, and circular economy concepts.
• Proficient in project and program management methodologies.
• Effective leadership qualities, excellent communication skills, and a pragmatic approach.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with potential bonus up to 20% of base pay.
• Annual car allowance of £9,000.
• Participation in the DSP scheme offering up to 15% of salary.
• Generous holiday entitlement of 27 days per year.
• Private medical insurance including family coverage.
• Discounts: 30% for colleagues and 15% for friends & family across the DFS Group.
• Wide array of additional perks including retailer and experiences discounts.
• Comprehensive wellbeing support including free on-site physiotherapy.
• Company pension scheme and group sharesave plan.
• Life assurance and company sick pay.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave benefits.

Diversity, Inclusion & Culture

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, welcoming workplace where all employees can thrive. Our culture emphasizes diverse perspectives, championing inclusion through employee networks and partnerships with organizations such as Doncaster Pride, Carers UK, and others committed to social change. We encourage applications even if candidates do not meet every qualification, reflecting our commitment to equal opportunity.

Additional Information

This position is based in Doncaster, England, United Kingdom, operating on a hybrid basis with some travel required. Employment is subject to DBS background checks.