Director of Supply Chain- Koch Media - Northern Europe, competitive package, Theale

Reporting to the Managing Director, the Director of Supply Chain will direct the internal teams responsible for procurement, 3PL functions, order processing, customer service, reverse logistics and HR.

This leader will manage four direct reports and three in-direct. They must build collaborative relationships and optimum ways of working with colleagues in adjacent commercial teams, optimising stock management, cost optimisation, provisioning slow-moving lines and control of all UK operational providers.

They will manage the internal collaboration with an Austrian based group owned 3PL facility & ensure SLA optimization, as well as an external 3PL provider in the UK. They will build planning processes that allow for smooth prediction of operational HI/LO to ensure resourcing of forward operational stress points.

The Director of Supply Chain– Northern Europe must be able to flex their style, balancing a hands-on approach with strategic thinking.

The Director of Supply Chain – Northern Europe will have the following responsibilities:

• Customer service- Review and evaluate how the customer services team approaches retail distribution. Understanding how advancements in technology and changes in the retail environment may create commercial opportunities for the business.
•  3PL Purchasing, Reverse Logistics Management- Ensure that the business meets demand levels, whilst managing key commercial relationships with the 3PL Warehouse. Drive strong data management, automating administrative tasks and encouraging greater interaction with stock vendors. Improve operational efficiencies related to the return of stock or overstocks.
• Volume Planning – Direct the Planning team based on various indicators. Work collaboratively with the Sales Director regarding service promises. Manage warehouse space vs capacity fluctuations.
•  Supporting Business Development – Bring new commercial ideas to the business which could drive topline performance.
•  HR Management, HR Development & Facilities Management – Supervise the HR personnel, offering guidance and an escalation point on general HR-related duties. Work closely with the MD on various projects related to HR and facilities management, ensuring legal compliance is delivered.

The candidate will have a background in Supply Chain and have an innately inquisitive mindset and desire to broaden responsibilities outside their natural field.  

Whilst the successful individual will lead the HR function, this will be more from an escalation point and therefore some experience dealing with HR or people related issues or projects would be advantageous. 

This natural leader will bring fresh ideas to the organisation, sharing insight and new approaches across all areas of the business. 

This role will suit an individual who is looking to work in an entrepreneurial environment, where setting a vision, driving change, and collaborating across all functions of the business is welcomed. 

They must be able to flex their style, communicating effectively across all levels of the business and with key internal and external stakeholders. They may come from an SME or larger organisation, yet their natural style must be suited to the environment and culture of Koch Media.  

They must also: 

•  Be a decisive leader, ensuring their team of four can drive performance and results across each functional area. 
•  Have a background in operations, warehouse and logistics and/or customer service. 
•  Ideally have the breadth to their career, taking on broader ‘people’ related responsibilities or projects, giving them some understanding of operational HR issues. 
•  Have strong relationship management skills both internally and externally, having gravitas and credibility across all levels and functions of the business. 
•  Have experience or an understanding of working within the Gaming sector, or relatable sectors where regular new product introductions and speed to market is a critical success factor. 



For an informal and confidential discussion, please speak with our advisors at Berwick Partners; Tom Graham on + 44 7736 920 739.