Network and Operational Solutions Director

Circa £90,000-£105,000 per annum depending on skills & experience + £6,744 annual car allowance & company bonus scheme

We are now recruiting for a newly created role within our Operations Senior Leadership Team for a Network & Operational Solutions Director.

Do you have in depth Hub and Spoke network strategy experience & able to lead and motivate others? 

Are you curious about the art of the possible, open minded and creative about future solution design?

You will be accountable for the development and delivery of the Network Strategy as well as the Operational Solution Design for our propositions (Core and Growth), to allow them to embed as business as usual (BAU) and deliver the service and cost requirements for our customer and our business.

This is a key leadership role within our Operations team, reporting to and being a proxy for our Operations Director as required, enabling you to make a big impact and develop your career in a challenging and supportive environment. 

About us

At Smiths News, we're not just the UK's largest news wholesaler; we're a dynamic team dedicated to innovation, excellence and inclusivity. With 33 distribution centres and a commitment to diversity, we're shaping the future of our industry.

About the role

This role incorporates the management of the operational solutioning for the Growth pipeline and interacts with other functions to ensure that new business embeds into a sustainable predesigned and pre-agreed solution to our business End to End (E2E) Operating Model.

The Network and Solutions will incorporate technology and automation as necessary, and you will ideally have a logistics background in some form of network and automated warehousing/ design function with a full understanding of process flow and process optimisation as well as Hub and Spoke network rationalisation and development. You will also manage the pipeline for capital projects as well as the detailed operating procedures and delivery through an Operational Excellence (OE) methodology.

About you

• Strong understanding of network strategy and its impact on business operations
• Previous experience in managing and designing logistics networks, including Hub and Spoke and multi-site configurations
• Expertise in solution design, including layout, process, and flow optimisation
• Knowledge of automation technologies and their application in operational settings
• Understanding of cost analysis and KPI development for new business solutions
• Strong leadership and team management skills, including stakeholder engagement with other functional specialists
• Excellent strategic planning and analytical abilities
• An open and curious mind- help us explore the art of the possible in solution design

What we can offer you 

• Competitive salary, with a generous car allowance and performance-based bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance and a health cash plan.
• 25 days holiday plus a holiday buy scheme, ensuring work-life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within our organisation, this is a key leadership role reporting to and being a proxy for the Operations Director as required.
• A supportive and inclusive workplace culture where your voice is valued and heard.