Head of Supply Chain Operations for FMCG

About the Role

Our client, a leading FMCG company located in London, UK, is seeking a seasoned professional to lead their Supply Chain Operations. This full-time, onsite position reports directly to the Business Head and requires a University degree, preferably with supply chain qualifications. Candidates must bring 8 to 10 years of substantive FMCG operations experience, particularly in Warehouse Management, Distributor Networks, and supporting Key Accounts and e-Commerce channels. Additionally, a minimum of 3 years experience within the UK managing imports and exports to the EU is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire supply chain and logistics process from demand planning through imports, warehousing, inventory management, and sales across local and EU markets.
• Lead supply chain and logistics activities with support from one team member, including creation of PFI documents, order entry, delivery scheduling, goods dispatch, and invoicing.
• Handle credit note processing for discrepancies in orders or incorrect invoices.
• Ensure smooth distribution of finished goods from warehouses to customers, maintaining stock accuracy and preventing overstocking or shortages through regular audits and reconciliations.
• Coordinate with third-party logistics providers to monitor daily operations, assess KPIs, and implement corrective measures to enhance performance.
• Generate reports on critical KPIs such as fill rates, delivery adherence, and vendor service levels.
• Develop and update SKU demand forecasts by analyzing historical sales data and collaborating cross-functionally to refine forecasting models.
• Monitor slow-moving and near-expiry inventory, working with sales and marketing to manage product liquidation.
• Prepare business analytics reports like production plans versus actuals, stock status, ageing reports, and support S&OP processes.
• Address issues related to receivables, dispatch, storage damage, and returns, ensuring timely resolution and inventory accuracy.
• Manage discrepancies arising during goods receipt from factories or warehouses and execute corrective actions.
• Facilitate insurance claims processes for inventory shortages.
• Support contract negotiations and service quality monitoring using data-driven insights.
• Manage import/export documentation ensuring compliance for smooth goods transit and timely delivery to customers.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with logistics providers, carriers, suppliers, and key customers ensuring high standards of operational service.
• Maintain adherence to quality and procedural standards, suggesting improvements where necessary.

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience managing supply chains in a global setting.
• Comprehensive knowledge of UK, European, and international import/export customs regulations.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, pressure-driven environment.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional and multicultural teams.
• Exceptional organizational skills with a systematic and detail-focused approach.
• Self-motivated and proactive in problem-solving and process improvements.
• Experience working within ISO9001:2015 quality management standards.

Additional Information

This role involves interaction with various internal stakeholders such as the Business Head, Sales & Marketing, Operations, Finance, Legal, Regulatory, and Demand teams. Externally, close collaboration is expected with warehousing and logistics service providers, key customers, mainstream accounts, retail chains, wholesalers, and agencies.