Programme Manager

Interim Programme Manager – Central Operating Model (Retail Transformation) London - Hybrid Negotiable and competitive ✅ Immediate Start A leading UK retailer is launching a high-impact Central Operating Model programme to transform its Buying, Merchandising, and central operations. The goal: streamline processes, drive automation, cut costs, and free teams to focus on value-adding activities - all without a large-scale system overhaul. Your role: You’ll be the hands-on leader coordinating a portfolio of interdependent projects, working closely with internal SMEs and a senior programme sponsor. Key initiatives include: Promotions Process Redesign – end-to-end review across Buying, Merchandising, Marketing, and Space teams to optimise efficiency and reduce administration. Forecasting Enhancements – improve and operationalise existing ML models to link with stock ordering processes. EDI Programme Integration – align finance-led EDI initiatives with the broader operational programme. Automation Projects – streamline line cards and stock tracking using internal BI/data science capabilities. Supplier Intake & Scorecards – establish measurement frameworks and reporting to improve supplier performance visibility. Legacy Systems Optimisation – extract and leverage data from existing allocation systems to reduce bottlenecks without replacement. You’ll prioritise initiatives to secure quick wins , reduce inventory, save thousands of hours in operational time, and cut unnecessary costs. You’ll also embed change management , engaging stakeholders across functions and bringing people on the journey - no dedicated change team exists, so your influence is critical. Who we’re looking for: ✔ Extensive retail experience with a strong grasp of the “plan, buy, move, sell” cycle. ✔ Proven operator with credibility, gravitas, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. ✔ Personable, proactive, and tenacious — someone who builds trust and momentum across the business. ✔ Delivery-focused and pragmatic, thriving in a fast-paced environment. ✔ Experienced in driving tangible, operational outcomes, with a track record of successful programmes and quick wins. Why this is exciting: You’ll lead a high-visibility programme with a hands-on, commercially astute sponsor. Make an immediate impact in a dynamic, cost-conscious, and agile retail environment. Work on meaningful, visible change that directly affects operations, efficiency, and profitability. Hybrid, flexible working with a focus on results rather than bureaucracy.

Location: London,, GB

Posted Date: 11/20/2025