Head of Network Planning
Overview
A leading global FMCG brand is embarking on a multi‑year supply chain transformation and is seeking a Head of Network Planning to design, optimise, and future‑proof its European logistics and fulfilment network. This is a newly created strategic role with exceptional visibility, offering the successful candidate the opportunity to have tangible, enterprise‑wide impact.
As the business scales, modernises, and evolves its go‑to‑market model, network planning has become a critical enabler of growth, resilience, sustainability, and customer experience. This role places you at the heart of that journey.
The Opportunity
As Head of Network Planning, you will shape the long‑term footprint, capacity strategy, cost‑to‑serve model, and operational flows across manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. You will also lead scenario modelling, strategic decision‑making, and investment planning to ensure the network is fit for the brand's future ambitions.
This is a role for someone who thrives in transformation environments-someone who wants to build, challenge, innovate, and influence at senior levels.
Key Responsibilities
Network Strategy & Design
- Lead the strategic design of the European supply chain network, including warehousing, transport flows, capacity allocation, customer service requirements, and market growth considerations.
- Build and maintain long‑range network models, evaluating cost, service, environmental impact, and risk.
- Identify network optimisation opportunities and drive the business case for short-, mid-, and long‑term improvements.
Transformation & Programme Leadership
- Act as a central leader within a major supply chain transformation programme.
- Partner with operations, logistics, planning, finance, and commercial teams to implement network changes aligned to business strategy.
- Develop and govern a clear roadmap for network evolution, integrating automation, sustainability, and new fulfilment capabilities.
Stakeholder Influence & Decision Support
- Present strategic recommendations to the senior leadership team, influencing major investment decisions.
- Coordinate cross‑functional steering groups to ensure alignment on network initiatives.
- Provide scenario modelling and sensitivity analysis to support resilient, data‑driven decision-making.
Data, Tools & Intelligence
- Oversee the build‑out or enhancement of network modelling tools, analytics landscapes, and digital decision-support systems.
- Establish KPIs, dashboards, and performance metrics for network effectiveness and optimisation.
Skills & Experience
- Deep expertise in network design, network optimisation, or network planning within FMCG, retail, or consumer sectors.
- Strong experience delivering supply chain transformation, ideally with greenfield or brownfield project experience.
- High proficiency in advanced modelling tools (e.g., Llamasoft, Blue Yonder, OMP, AnyLogistix).
- Strong financial acumen and ability to build clear business cases.
- Proven ability to influence at senior level and communicate complex modelling into simple strategic narratives.
- Fluent German and English-essential for stakeholder engagement across the European organisation.
- Ambition to take ownership, drive change, and leave a measurable legacy.
What's in It for You
- Ownership of the European network strategy for a major FMCG brand undergoing a once‑in‑a‑generation transformation.
- Direct influence on executive decision-making and CAPEX allocation.
- The chance to build, reshape, and modernise a network that will support the business for the next decade.
- A role that blends analytical depth with strategic leadership and real organisational impact.
FAQs
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