Introduction
Job Purpose:
To lead the technology strategy delivery, and optimisation of supply chain and distribution systems for UPD, ensuring efficient, reliable, and scalable pharmaceutical distribution operations and delivering measurable improvements in service levels, cost efficiency, and operational performance.
The role serves as the technology representative on the UPD Executive Committee, contributing to business strategy and performance, and acting as a trusted advisor on technology-enabled operational improvements.
The role is accountable for delivering critical supply chain technology programmes within committed timelines and business expectations, and for ensuring responsive, high-quality execution in a complex and regulated environment
Job Description
Job Objectives:
Define and execute the UPD technology strategy and roadmap aligned to supply chain performance, growth, and operational excellence, ensuring measurable business outcomes and disciplined delivery.
Serve as an active UPD EXCO member, contributing to business strategy, decision-making, and performance management, and acting as a trusted advisor on technology-enabled operational improvement.
Drive measurable improvements in supply chain KPIs (including service levels, throughput, cost-to-serve, and inventory optimisation) through effective use of technology and data.
Ensure the availability, resilience, and performance of critical supply chain systems (WMS, TMS, inventory, and distribution platforms) to support uninterrupted operations and service level commitments.
Lead end-to-end supply chain integration across suppliers, distribution centres, and retail channels, resolving cross-functional dependencies and enabling seamless operational flow.
Drive automation and optimisation initiatives (including warehouse automation, route optimisation, forecasting, and AI-enabled planning) to improve efficiency, reduce cost, and enhance service levels.
Accountable for the successful delivery of critical supply chain technology programmes, ensuring on-time delivery, quality execution, and achievement of defined business benefits.
Ensure compliance with pharmaceutical distribution regulatory requirements, including data integrity, traceability, auditability, and system governance standards.
Ensure integration with Retail, SAP, and enterprise systems in alignment with enterprise architecture standards and governance frameworks.
Build and lead high-performing supply chain IT teams, fostering a culture of operational excellence, accountability, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision-making.
Job Related Knowledge:
Deep knowledge of supply chain and distribution systems (WMS, TMS, inventory management)
Strong understanding of warehouse operations, logistics, and distribution processes
Knowledge of system integration across supply chain, retail, and enterprise platforms
Understanding of data, forecasting, and optimisation models in supply chain environments
Knowledge of IT governance, risk, and operational resilience Experience with automation, robotics, and smart warehouse technologies
Knowledge of AI/ML in supply chain optimisation and planning
Exposure to IoT and real-time tracking technologies
Understanding of pharmaceutical or regulated supply chain environments
Job Related Skills:
Continuous improvement capability (Lean / Six Sigma principles applied in operational and technology contexts)
Strong data-driven decision-making and optimisation capability
Change leadership experience, including driving behavioural and process transformation
Experience working across enterprise platforms such as SAP and large-scale retail or supply chain systems
Strong operational leadership, with the ability to translate supply chain strategy into executable and measurable technology outcomes
Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and credibly to executive and operational stakeholders
Proven capability to perform in high-pressure, time-sensitive environments requiring speed, resilience, and execution discipline
Strong programme execution capability, delivering complex initiatives within constrained timelines and operational environments
Commercial and operational acumen, with clear understanding of supply chain performance drivers (service levels, cost-to-serve, throughput, inventory)
Ability to influence and align cross-functional stakeholders across Supply Chain, Retail, IT, and Shared Services
Strong problem-solving and structured decision-making capability in complex, dynamic environments
Vendor and partner management with accountability for delivery performance and outcomes
Ability to drive technology adoption and embedding within operational environments
Strong cost optimisation and efficiency orientation
Job Experience:
10 years' experience in supply chain, logistics, and/or complex distributed technology environments
Proven experience leading technology delivery in operationally intensive environments (e.g. WMS, TMS, or large-scale logistics systems)
Demonstrated experience improving operational performance through technology enablement
Strong track record delivering automation, optimisation, or large-scale transformation programmes
Experience managing vendors and strategic partners with accountability for delivery outcomes and performance
Demonstrated ability to deliver complex programmes within tight timelines and high-pressure operational contexts
Proven experience developing and owning business cases for technology and supply chain initiatives, including financial modelling, ROI tracking, and benefits realisation
Demonstrated use of data and analytics to inform operational and strategic decision-making in supply chain environments
Experience in retail distribution or high-volume logistics environments
Exposure to pharmaceutical or regulated supply chain environments
Experience delivering enterprise-wide transformation programmes across multiple business units or geographies
Experience engaging with and presenting to executive leadership (EXCO level), translating technical and operational performance into business insight and decision
Minimum requirements
Education:
Honours degree (or equivalent) in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field
Certifications in supply chain, logistics, or IT
Job Related Competencies:
Leading and Supervising
Working with People
Adhering to Principle and Values
Applying Expertise and Technology
Presenting and Communicating Information
Analysing
Planning and Organising
Delivering Results & Meeting Customer Expectations
Entrepreneurial and Commercial Thinking
Apply by: 13 July 2026