Network Optimisation Manager
Function: Supply ChainLocation: Hybrid – Site presence expected within the South & Southeast EnglandContract type: PermSalary: £56,476 with the potential to rise to £66,443 over 3 yearsClosing Date: 22nd July 2026
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Network Optimisation Manager within the Supply Chain team. The Network Optimisation Manager will drive continuous improvement initiatives, support business growth, and ensure the network remains agile, resilient, and capable of meeting evolving customer and operational demands.
In this role you will be responsible for analysing network performance, identifying opportunities for efficiency and cost reduction, and implementing optimisation strategies that enhance service delivery, customer experience, and business performance. You will work cross‑functionally with Operations, Planning, Commercial, Technology, and Finance teams to design and optimise network solutions that align with organisational objectives. You will leverage data‑driven insights, forecasting, modelling, and performance metrics to improve capacity utilisation, resource allocation, and operational effectiveness across the network.
Responsibilities
- Lead network optimisation activities by analysing customer demand, delivery volumes and distribution centre capacity to improve service performance, reduce operating costs and support efficient route, zoning and delivery channel decisions.
- Manage the governance, approval and configuration of delivery locations, acting as the subject matter expert for delivery network design while ensuring operational, commercial and customer requirements are met.
- Own and optimise key logistics systems and reporting tools, including the DF and Site Survey databases and customer service dashboards, ensuring data accuracy, compliance, continuous improvement and enhanced decision‑making capability.
- Manage third‑party carrier performance and transport costs across the network, supporting demand smoothing initiatives, seasonal planning, cage return programmes and cost‑reduction opportunities while ensuring optimal service delivery.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with NHS customers, logistics partners and internal stakeholders, providing operational insight, resolving service issues, supporting supply chain optimisation projects and driving continuous improvement across the distribution network.
Benefits
- Hybrid working opportunities, giving you the flexibility to work collaboratively in the office and remotely.
- Annual bonus schemes, long‑service recognition awards and appreciation for your hard work.
- 27 days holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional 5 days.
- In‑house training and external qualifications to maximise your potential.
- Well‑being support including one day of paid well‑being leave and free access to the 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Generous pension scheme – 12 % employer contribution when you contribute 6 %.
- Access to a Flexible Benefits Scheme allowing you to choose from life insurance, critical illness cover, income protection, health cash plan, dental insurance, and additional pension contributions.
- Two days of paid volunteering leave.
- Discounts from the Blue Light Card and NHS discounts.
About NHS Supply Chain
Our role is to support the NHS to save lives and improve health. We are a part of the NHS family, sourcing, delivering and supplying healthcare products, services and food for NHS trusts and organisations across England and Wales. We operate a national network of distribution centres, manage relationships with over a thousand suppliers and deliver more than 8,000,000 orders each year to more than 17,000 locations, freeing NHS staff to focus on patient care.
Qualifications
- Experience in service logistics and supply‑chain operations with a strong understanding of planning, coordination and process optimisation.
- Highly analytical, numerically minded with the ability to interpret complex data, identify trends and translate insights into practical business actions and improvements.
- Exceptional attention to detail and diligence, ensuring accuracy, compliance and high‑quality outcomes.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other IT systems, including pivot tables, lookups and data‑analysis tools for reporting and decision‑making.
- Effective people and stakeholder manager, capable of working independently or collaboratively, building strong relationships and driving results through initiative and self‑motivation.
Our Inclusive Commitment
At NHS Supply Chain we are committed to building an inclusive environment where difference is valued and celebrated, giving everyone the opportunity to thrive. If this role sounds like the next step in your career but your experience doesn’t match perfectly, we encourage you to apply.
If you need additional support to complete the application, contact the Talent Acquisition team at careers@supplychain.nhs.uk for alternative ways to apply.
We may close the advert early if application numbers are high. Please apply promptly.
SCCL is a company registered in England and Wales, company number 10881715, operating as the management function of the NHS Supply Chain.
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