Logistics Network Design Manager

The Design Project; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK retailer in Leeds is seeking a Logistics Network Design Manager. This role involves leading the design and optimization of logistics networks, managing a team of analysts, and driving operational excellence. Applicants should have a strong background in logistics and supply chain, with 5-10 years of experience. The position offers a competitive salary of £60,000 - £85,000 per annum, hybrid working flexibility, and a comprehensive benefits package including a company car allowance and wellness services.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Discretionary company bonus

Company pension

Company car allowance

Colleague discount

Access to wellbeing services

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of experience in logistics, supply chain planning, or operations strategy.
• Proven track record of managing high-performing teams.
• Demonstrated experience in logistics network strategies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of logistics analysts.
• Architect the company’s logistics network strategy.
• Design operations layout to maximize efficiency.

Skills

Logistics Network Design

Supply Chain Operations

Data Analysis & Modeling

Leadership & People Management

Commercial Awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Master's degree or equivalent

Tools

SQL

Python

Power BI

Coupa

Job description

Job Title: Logistics Network Design ManagerCompany: AsdaLocation: Asda House, Leeds, England, United KingdomJob Type: Full-timeCategory: Supply Chain & Logistics OperationsDate Posted: January 27, 2026Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (Estimated 5-10 years)Remote Status: Hybrid (Minimum 3 days in office)

• Lead the strategic development and implementation of Asda's future logistics network, ensuring alignment with growth, transformation, and operational excellence objectives.
• Manage a team of logistics analysts, fostering a data-driven culture focused on optimizing network performance and driving measurable business benefits.
• Translate long-term demand forecasts into actionable logistics network strategies and initiatives, collaborating closely with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure buy-in and successful execution.
• Develop robust business cases to justify strategic investments in network infrastructure, technology, and operational improvements, demonstrating clear ROI and commercial outcomes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the logistics network to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate service levels for customers and internal teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Logistics Network Design Manager at Asda is positioned as a critical leadership function within Supply Chain Operations. It requires a blend of strategic foresight, analytical rigor, and team management expertise to shape the future of Asda's distribution and fulfillment capabilities. This role is directly tied to achieving operational excellence and commercial success through optimized logistics infrastructure.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of logistics network design analysts, fostering a high-performance environment.
• Architect and communicate the company’s long-term logistics network strategy, ensuring it supports evolving business needs and market dynamics.
• Design and optimize the physical and operational layout of distribution centers, transport routes, and inventory placement to maximize efficiency and minimize costs.
• Develop comprehensive models and simulations to assess the impact of network changes on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cost, service levels, lead times, and carbon footprint.
• Collaborate with Operations, Commercial, IT, and Finance teams to gather requirements, align on network strategies, and ensure seamless execution of network projects.
• Build compelling business cases that quantify the financial and operational benefits of proposed network designs, securing stakeholder approval and investment.
• Identify and evaluate emerging logistics technologies, industry trends, and best practices to inform network strategy and drive innovation.
• Monitor and report on the performance of the existing logistics network, identifying areas for improvement and adapting strategies as business conditions change.
• Ensure the logistics network design contributes to Asda's sustainability goals and regulatory compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed go beyond basic network planning, emphasizing strategic leadership, cross-functional influence, and the development of robust business cases. This indicates a senior role focused on long-term network evolution and significant investment decisions within a large retail organization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related quantitative field.
• Master's degree or equivalent practical experience in a relevant field is highly preferred.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in logistics, supply chain planning, network design, or operations strategy.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and developing high-performing analytical teams.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing complex logistics network strategies within a large-scale retail or consumer goods environment.

Required Skills:

• Logistics Network Design: Expertise in methodologies, tools, and best practices for designing, optimizing, and modeling distribution networks (e.g., facility location, transportation routing, inventory placement).
• Supply Chain Operations: Deep understanding of end-to-end supply chain processes, including warehousing, transportation, inventory management, and demand forecasting.
• Strategic Thinking & Planning: Ability to translate long-term business objectives into actionable logistics strategies and roadmaps.
• Data Analysis & Modeling: Proficiency in using analytical tools and techniques to interpret complex datasets, build predictive models, and derive actionable insights (e.g., using SQL, Python, R, or specialized network design software).
• Business Case Development: Strong financial acumen and the ability to construct detailed, persuasive business cases with clear ROI projections.
• Leadership & People Management: Experience leading, coaching, and motivating a team of analysts; ability to foster collaboration and drive performance.
• Stakeholder Management: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with and influence stakeholders across all levels of the organization.
• Problem-Solving: Analytical and methodical approach to identifying, diagnosing, and resolving complex operational challenges.
• Commercial Awareness: Understanding of the commercial implications of logistics decisions and their impact on profitability and customer satisfaction.

Preferred Skills:

• Network Design Software: Hands-on experience with specialized network design and optimization software (e.g., Llamasoft/Coupa, AnyLogic, Gurobi, CPLEX).
• Advanced Analytics: Familiarity with machine learning techniques for demand forecasting, inventory optimization, or route optimization.
• Retail Logistics: Specific experience in designing and optimizing logistics networks for a large grocery or general merchandise retailer.
• Continuous Improvement Methodologies: Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement frameworks.
• Project Management: Certification or experience in managing large-scale strategic projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requested skills emphasize a blend of technical analytical capabilities, strategic foresight, and strong leadership. The mention of specific network design software and advanced analytics suggests a need for a candidate who can leverage sophisticated tools to drive optimization.

• Network Design Case Studies: A portfolio showcasing successful logistics network design projects, detailing the problem statement, analytical approach, proposed solutions, implementation, and quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, service improvements).
• Optimization Models: Examples of models developed for network optimization, capacity planning, or scenario analysis, demonstrating your ability to translate business needs into analytical frameworks.
• Business Case Examples: Demonstrations of robust business cases developed for significant logistics investments or strategic shifts, highlighting financial justifications and projected ROI.
• Process Improvement Documentation: Evidence of leading process improvement initiatives within logistics or supply chain, with documentation of workflow analysis, implemented changes, and measured outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Experience documenting and optimizing logistical workflows, including inbound/outbound processes, inventory management, and transportation planning.
• System Implementation Standards: Understanding of best practices for implementing or integrating new logistics technologies or systems, with a focus on user adoption and operational efficiency.
• Performance Measurement Frameworks: Ability to design and implement key performance indicator (KPI) frameworks for logistics network performance, including dashboards and reporting mechanisms.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, demonstrating practical application of network design principles and quantifiable business impact. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their analytical methodologies, strategic decision-making, and leadership in driving operational improvements through their portfolio.

Salary Range:

• Competitive salary plus benefits. (Estimated range for a Logistics Network Design Manager in Leeds, UK, with 5-10 years of experience: £60,000 - £85,000 per annum, depending on experience and specific qualifications.)
• Discretionary company bonus.
• Company pension up to 7% matched.
• Company Car allowance of £5,700 per annum.
• 15% colleague discount in store and online.
• Free access to comprehensive wellbeing services including Stream, 24/7 virtual GP, counselling, health and dental cash plans, and a 24/7 employee assistance helpline.
• Discounts across a range of services and activities (e.g., airport parking, theme parks, cinemas).
• Asda Allies Inclusion Networks for a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• Excellent parental leave policies: maternity & adoption leave, paternity leave, shared parental leave, neonatal care leave, and support for fertility treatments.

Working Hours:

• 37.5 hours per week.
• Hybrid working model with a minimum of 3 days per week in the Asda House office. Additional days in the office may be required based on team needs or specific projects. Occasional visits to suppliers, stores, or depots may be necessary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is described as competitive, and typical for a manager-level role in a large UK retailer. The benefits package is comprehensive, highlighting a strong focus on employee well-being, financial security, and work-life balance, common in established organizations like Asda. The inclusion of a company car allowance is a significant perk for this role. Regional salary research for Leeds, UK, supports the estimated range considering the role's seniority and responsibilities within the retail logistics sector.

Industry: Retail (Grocery & General Merchandise)Company Size: Large Enterprise (Likely 100,000+ employees globally, given Asda's scale)Founded: 1949

Team Structure:

• The Logistics Network Design Manager will likely be part of a broader Supply Chain or Logistics function.
• The team managed will consist of Logistics Analysts focused on network modeling, data analysis, and strategic planning.
• Collaboration will be extensive with various departments including Warehouse Operations, Transport, Commercial, Finance, IT, and potentially Sustainability teams.
• Reporting lines will typically lead to a Head of Logistics, Director of Supply Chain, or VP of Operations.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data analytics, modeling, and forecasting to inform strategic decisions regarding network design and operational improvements.
• Strategic Planning & Execution: A structured approach to developing long-term strategies, translating them into actionable plans, and overseeing their implementation.
• Continuous Improvement: A culture that actively seeks opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels through ongoing analysis and process refinement.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: A commitment to working collaboratively with diverse teams to achieve shared business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Asda is a major UK retailer with a significant logistics footprint. The company culture likely emphasizes efficiency, customer focus, and a pragmatic approach to problem-solving, driven by data and strategic planning within its vast supply chain operations.

Operations Career Level: This is a Managerial position within the Supply Chain and Logistics domain, representing a mid-to-senior level of responsibility. It requires strategic oversight, team leadership, and significant influence over capital investments and operational strategy.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into a higher-level logistics or supply chain leadership position, likely a Head of Logistics or Director of Supply Chain. This structure provides exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making processes within the company.

Operations Impact: The Logistics Network Design Manager has a direct and substantial impact on Asda's profitability and customer satisfaction. By optimizing the logistics network, this role influences operational costs, delivery speed, product availability, and the overall efficiency of the supply chain, which are critical to retail success.

• Strategic Leadership: Progression to senior leadership roles such as Head of Logistics Network Design, Director of Supply Chain Strategy, or VP of Operations.
• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas like e-commerce logistics, sustainability in supply chains, or advanced network modeling techniques.
• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to move into broader supply chain management roles, operational improvement leadership, or commercial strategy positions within Asda.
• Professional Development: Access to industry conferences, advanced training programs, and potentially certifications in supply chain management or logistics analytics.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, complex organization like Asda, with opportunities to grow into senior strategic leadership positions or specialize in critical areas of supply chain management.

Office Type: Asda House is a corporate office environment, serving as a central hub for strategic planning, management, and administrative functions.

Office Location(s): Asda House, Leeds, England. This location serves as the primary base for the role, requiring a minimum of 3 days per week onsite.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages in-person collaboration for team meetings, strategic workshops, and cross-functional discussions, fostering idea exchange and problem-solving.
• Technology & Tools: Access to Asda's corporate IT infrastructure, including necessary software for data analysis, modeling, communication, and project management.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities to engage directly with the logistics analysis team, as well as build relationships with stakeholders across various departments within Asda House.

Work Schedule: The standard 37.5-hour work week, combined with the hybrid model, offers a structured yet flexible environment. This allows for focused individual work and dedicated time for collaborative sessions and strategic planning meetings in the office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role at Asda House suggests a balance between focused analytical work that can be done remotely and essential in-person collaboration for strategic alignment and team cohesion.

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application, likely by an HR representative and potentially a hiring manager, to assess your qualifications against the core requirements.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A deeper dive into your experience in logistics network design, team management, strategic thinking, and commercial acumen. Expect behavioral questions and scenario-based inquiries.
• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: A key stage will likely involve presenting a selection of your best work from your portfolio, showcasing a specific network design project, optimization model, or business case. You may be asked to walk through your methodology, challenges, and outcomes.
• Cross-Functional Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with key partners from Operations, Commercial, or Finance to assess your ability to collaborate, communicate, and influence across departments.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (e.g., Director of Supply Chain) to confirm strategic fit and leadership potential.
• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your expertise in network design, strategy development, and quantifiable results.
• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your analytical approach, the tools/methods used, the solution developed, implementation challenges, and the measurable business outcomes (e.g., % cost reduction, % service improvement, ROI).
• Highlight Data & Analytics: Emphasize how data was used to drive decisions and validate your recommendations. Showcase any complex modeling or analytical techniques employed.
• Demonstrate Leadership: If applicable, highlight your role in leading teams, managing stakeholders, and driving consensus.
• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, alternative solutions considered, and how you would adapt your approach to Asda's specific context.
• Network Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical network design challenge. This might involve analyzing a dataset and proposing a solution, or discussing how you would approach a specific network problem for a retailer like Asda.
• Business Case Formulation: Practice articulating the key components of a strong business case for a logistics investment, focusing on financial projections and strategic alignment.
• Stakeholder Communication: Think about how you would communicate complex network strategies to different audiences (e.g., executive leadership, operational teams, non-logistics functions).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be thorough, with a strong emphasis on practical experience, analytical capabilities, and the ability to present complex information clearly. Portfolio presentation is a critical component.

Primary Tools:

• Network Design & Optimization Software: Experience with leading platforms such as Coupa (formerly Llamasoft), AnyLogic, JDA (Blue Yonder), or similar specialized tools for network modeling, simulation, and optimization is highly valuable.
• Data Analysis & Visualization Tools: Proficiency in SQL for data extraction and manipulation, and tools like Tableau, Power BI, or QlikView for creating dashboards and visualizing network performance.
• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced Excel skills for data analysis, modeling, and scenario planning.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence Platforms: Experience with BI tools to track key logistics KPIs, generate performance reports, and communicate insights to stakeholders.
• Forecasting Tools: Familiarity with demand forecasting software or methodologies to inform network capacity planning.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly CRM-focused, understanding how logistics data integrates with ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and WMS (Warehouse Management Systems) is important for holistic network design.
• Familiarity with process automation concepts within logistics operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in specialized network design software and robust data analysis tools is essential for this role. The ability to integrate data from various systems and present insights effectively through BI platforms will be critical.

Operations Values:

• Data-Driven Excellence: A strong commitment to using data and analytical insights to guide all decisions, from strategic planning to day-to-day operations.
• Customer Focus: Ensuring that all logistics network decisions ultimately serve to improve the customer experience through efficient, reliable, and cost-effective delivery.
• Efficiency & Cost Optimization: A relentless pursuit of operational efficiency and cost reduction across the entire logistics network.
• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies and methodologies to continuously improve the logistics network and adapt to changing market conditions.
• Collaboration & Inclusion: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teams work together effectively to achieve common goals.
• Partnership-Oriented: Working closely with various departments to understand their needs and align logistics strategies with broader business objectives.
• Transparent Communication: Openly sharing insights, challenges, and plans with stakeholders to build trust and ensure alignment.
• Solution-Focused: A pragmatic approach to problem-solving, focusing on developing and implementing effective solutions that deliver tangible results.
• Continuous Feedback: Encouraging a culture of constructive feedback to drive ongoing improvement within the team and across cross-functional interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Asda's values likely emphasize customer service, efficiency, and teamwork, which are crucial for a successful logistics operation. The culture will encourage data-informed decisions and cross-departmental collaboration.

• Balancing Cost vs. Service: The inherent challenge of optimizing the logistics network to achieve both cost efficiency and high service levels, especially in a competitive retail environment.
• Evolving Consumer Demands: Adapting the network to meet increasing demands for faster delivery, wider product selection, and flexible fulfillment options (e.g., click-and-collect, same-day delivery).
• Supply Chain Volatility: Navigating disruptions from global events, economic fluctuations, and unforeseen operational issues, requiring a resilient and adaptable network design.
• Sustainability Mandates: Integrating environmental sustainability goals (e.g., reducing carbon emissions, optimizing packaging) into network design and operational planning.
• Legacy Systems & Processes: Modernizing or integrating with existing infrastructure and processes, which can sometimes be complex in large, established organizations.
• Advanced Modeling Techniques: Opportunities to deepen expertise in sophisticated network modeling, simulation, and optimization techniques.
• Industry Best Practices: Staying abreast of cutting-edge innovations in logistics, automation, and supply chain management through conferences, webinars, and industry publications.
• Leadership Development: Access to Asda's internal leadership development programs, focusing on strategic management, change leadership, and team development.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining broader business acumen by working closely with Commercial, Operations, and IT teams on strategic initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges related to managing complexity and change within a large retail logistics network, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a dynamic field.

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you significantly optimized a logistics network. What was the problem, your approach, the tools you used, and the measurable impact?"
• "How would you go about designing a new distribution network for a growing online grocery business with a focus on same-day delivery?"
• "What are the key trade-offs you consider when balancing logistics costs with customer service levels?"
• "How do you stay current with emerging trends and technologies in logistics and supply chain management?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Asda's current logistics operations or challenges, and how do you see this role contributing?"
• "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate and develop an analytical team."
• "How would you approach building a business case for a multi-million-pound investment in new warehouse automation?"
• "How do you foster collaboration between logistics and other departments like Commercial or IT?"
• Focus on Impact: Select case studies where your work led to clear, quantifiable business improvements (cost savings, efficiency gains, service level enhancements).
• Showcase Your Process: Clearly explain your methodology, from data gathering and analysis to model building and recommendation development.
• Address Challenges: Be ready to discuss any obstacles encountered and how you overcame them.
• Tailor to Asda: Where possible, relate your experience and examples to the retail sector and Asda's likely operational context.
• Be Concise and Engaging: Present your information clearly and persuasively, allowing ample time for questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, analytical rigor, leadership capabilities, and a clear understanding of the retail logistics landscape. A well-prepared portfolio presentation is key to success.

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Asda Jobs portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Select 2-3 key projects from your experience that best highlight your logistics network design, strategic planning, and business case development skills. Prepare to walk through these in detail, focusing on quantifiable results and your specific contributions.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your CV clearly articulates your experience in logistics network design, team leadership, analytical methodologies, and stakeholder management. Use keywords from the job description and quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Reduced logistics costs by 15%," "Improved delivery lead times by 10%").
• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common interview questions related to logistics strategy, problem-solving, leadership, and stakeholder management. Prepare a compelling narrative for your portfolio presentation.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Asda's business, its market position, recent news, and any known challenges or strategic initiatives within its supply chain. Understand their commitment to operational excellence and customer service.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Application Requirements

Proven experience managing teams in logistics and supply chain strategy is required. Candidates should possess strong analytical skills and be up to date with industry trends and best practices.

Discretionary Company Bonus, Company Pension Up To 7% Matched, Company Car Allowance, Colleague Discount, Free Access To Wellbeing Services, Excellent...