Hozelock has combined a knowledge and passion for gardening with a pride in craftsmanship, for over 60 years. Manufacturing in its factories in the UK and France, and with partners across Europe and Asia, Hozelock and Hozelock-Exel sell gardening products to retail customers in over 60 countries worldwide.

The Group Supply Chain Director is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing and optimizing the end-to-end supply chain operations across the entire organization. This role requires a strategic and hands-on approach to ensure the efficient flow of materials, goods, and information from suppliers to customers. The Group Supply Chain Director will collaborate closely with various departments, including procurement, production, logistics, distribution, and demand planning, to drive operational excellence, cost savings, and customer satisfaction.

Job Description:

The Group Supply Chain Director is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing and optimizing the end-to-end supply chain operations across the entire organization. This role requires a strategic and hands-on approach to ensure the efficient flow of materials, goods, and information from suppliers to customers. The Group Supply Chain Director will collaborate closely with various departments, including procurement, production, logistics, distribution, and demand planning, to drive operational excellence, cost savings, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning: Develop and implement a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with the overall corporate objectives. Identify opportunities for process improvements, cost reduction, and enhanced operational efficiency.
2. Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and negotiate favourable terms, contracts, and pricing. Monitor supplier performance and ensure timely delivery of materials while mitigating supply chain risks.
3. Demand Planning: Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to accurately forecast demand and align supply chain processes to meet customer requirements. Develop inventory strategies to balance stock levels and minimize holding costs.
4. Inventory Management: Establish optimal inventory levels, monitor inventory turns, and implement strategies to reduce excess or obsolete inventory. Implement inventory control mechanisms to prevent stockouts and overstock situations.
5. Logistics and Distribution: Oversee transportation, warehousing, and distribution activities to ensure timely and cost-effective movement of goods. Optimize distribution networks to minimize lead times and shipping costs.
6. Operational Excellence: Implement best practices and continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes, reduce waste, and enhance overall supply chain performance. Leverage technology and data analytics to drive informed decision-making.
7. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including finance, marketing, sales, and operations, to align supply chain strategies with business goals. Collaborate on new product launches, promotions, and other initiatives.
8. Risk Management: Identify and assess potential supply chain risks, such as geopolitical, regulatory, and environmental factors. Develop contingency plans and mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity.
9. Performance Metrics: Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure supply chain performance. Regularly track and analyze these metrics, making data-driven decisions to address any deviations from targets.
10. Talent Development: Build and lead a high-performing supply chain team. Provide mentorship, training, and development opportunities to enhance the team’s capabilities and foster a culture of continuous learning.
11. Sustainability and CSR: Integrate sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility initiatives into the supply chain strategy, promoting environmentally responsible operations and ethical sourcing.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management
• Proven track record of at least 10 years in progressively responsible supply chain management roles, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership position.
• Strong strategic thinking and business acumen.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and data analytics tools.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams.
• In-depth knowledge of industry best practices and trends in supply chain management.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills in complex and fast-paced environments.
• Strong understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements related to supply chain operations.

The Group Supply Chain Director plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s supply chain strategy, optimizing operations, and contributing to overall business growth and success.