Head- Supply Chain

About the Role

Introduction

Oxford University Press is looking for an experienced and results-oriented Head - Supply Chain to lead and optimize our India supply chain operations. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for a supply chain professional who is passionate about driving operational excellence, vendor performance, cost optimization, and service improvements across a large-scale distribution network.

This role offers the opportunity to work closely with senior leadership, manage strategic third-party logistics partnerships, and influence key supply chain initiatives that directly support business growth. You will play a critical role in shaping supply chain strategy, improving operational efficiency, enhancing customer service levels, and delivering measurable business impact.

The position provides exposure to cross-functional collaboration with Sales, Marketing, Operations, and Customer Service teams, while leading continuous improvement initiatives and developing high-performing teams.

Opportunity

As Head - Supply Chain, you will be responsible for managing India supply chain operations through third-party logistics (3PL) partners, distribution centre operations, and transportation networks. Your key responsibilities will include:

Vendor Management & Cost Control

• Act as the primary point of contact between OUP India and 3PL service providers.
• Manage 3PL contracts and ensure adherence to agreed service levels and contractual obligations.
• Establish and maintain a robust performance management framework for logistics partners.
• Monitor vendor performance and ensure transparency through regular benchmarking and reporting.
• Evaluate and select consumable suppliers based on quality, reliability, and cost effectiveness.
• Ensure all statutory, safety, security, and legal compliance requirements are met by warehouse partners.
• Develop annual operational budgets in collaboration with Inventory and Sales teams.
• Monitor monthly spend against budget and implement cost control measures where necessary.
• Drive continuous improvements in operational costs and service delivery.

Logistics & Transportation Management

• Identify and recommend transportation partners by balancing service quality and cost efficiency.
• Monitor transporter performance and implement improvement initiatives.
• Ensure timely collection and management of Proof of Delivery (POD) documentation to avoid future disputes.

Inventory Management

• Monitor inventory movement and guide warehouse partners on stock positioning for efficient order processing.
• Collaborate with demand planning teams on forecasting and inventory receipt planning.
• Support effective inventory management to ensure service continuity and operational efficiency.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Sales, Marketing, Operations, and Customer Service teams to resolve supply chain challenges.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and business initiatives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with both internal stakeholders and external partners.

Process Improvement, Team Leadership & Reporting

• Identify, recommend, and implement process improvements to enhance supply chain efficiency.
• Stay informed about industry trends and supply chain best practices.
• Provide operational support to business and sales teams.
• Lead, coach, and mentor team members to drive performance and development.
• Monitor team KPIs, conduct quarterly reviews, and provide constructive feedback.
• Prepare and present operational performance reports, including 3PL performance and departmental progress.

Impact of the Role

The Head - Supply Chain will play a pivotal role in ensuring seamless supply chain operations across India while delivering cost efficiencies, service excellence, and operational reliability. The role directly contributes to business performance through effective vendor management, transportation optimization, inventory accuracy, customer satisfaction, and successful execution of strategic supply chain initiatives.

Key focus areas include:

• Delivering agreed supply chain SLAs across inbound and outbound operations.

• Driving freight cost optimization and transportation efficiency.
• Improving warehouse performance and inventory accuracy.
• Enhancing supply planning and operational effectiveness through cross-functional partnership.
• Building team capability and succession readiness.
• Leading strategic projects focused on supply chain transformation and cost-benefit optimization.

About You

Essential Criteria

• Graduate degree in Operations, Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, or a related field.
• Significant experience in supply chain, logistics, warehouse operations, and vendor management.
• Minimum 5 years of experience managing 3PL contracts and warehouse operations.
• Strong understanding of logistics, transportation, inventory management, and distribution operations.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to derive insights from operational and financial data.
• Proven experience in cost management, budgeting, and performance improvement initiatives.
• Ability to build and manage productive relationships with third-party service providers and business stakeholders.
• Experience leading teams and managing performance through clear objectives and KPIs.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
• High levels of integrity, accountability, urgency, and results orientation.

Desirable Criteria

• Postgraduate qualification in Business Management, Operations, Supply Chain, or a related discipline (MBA/PGDBM preferred).
• Experience in supply chain transformation, process improvement, and strategic logistics projects.
• Exposure to multi-location distribution operations and large-scale logistics networks.
• Knowledge of industry best practices in supply chain management and continuous improvement methodologies.

Queries

Please contact [email protected] with any queries relating to this role. To ensure a smooth application process, please submit your CV through the application link rather than via email.

We are committed to supporting diversity in our workforce and ensuring an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive. We seek to employ a workforce representative of the markets that we serve and encourage applications from all.