Director of Operations

North Search Talent Powerhouse; Barcelona; On-site; EUR 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

North Search is supporting an international consumer goods client seeking an Operations Director to head the Supply Chain in Spain and Portugal. The role blends strategic vision with hands-on leadership for planning, logistics and customer service across ~100 staff.

You will lead S&OP processes, manage inventory and supplier relations, and drive efficiency through digital tools while ensuring regulatory compliance and top-tier service.

Qualifications

• University degree in Engineering, Business Administration or Logistics.
• Master’s in Operations or Supply Chain is desirable.
• 8–10 years in demand planning, logistics or supply chain with 3–5 years leading teams.
• Experience in a product company with B2B sales, multi-country environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly S&OP with Sales, Marketing and Finance.
• Oversee demand planning, stock levels and obsolescence risks.
• Manage warehousing, distribution and carrier relationships in Spain and Portugal.
• Ensure on-time delivery, service levels and cost control.
• Lead customer service, order processing and returns.
• Drive tools adoption and data accuracy across ERP/CRM systems.

Skills

Spanish language

English language

Team leadership

Demand planning

Education

University degree in Engineering / Business / Logistics

Master's in Operations or Supply Chain desirable

Tools

ERP systems

Warehouse management systems

Data analysis & dashboards

Job description

North Search is a global Executive Search and Talent Consultancy helping clients in fast-changing industries find top talent that fits their company culture and delivers real business impact.

On this occasion, our client is an international organization operating within the consumer goods sector, currently experiencing an important phase of expansion and consolidation in Europe.

We are seeking an Operations Director to lead the company's Supply Chain in Spain and Portugal, with responsibility for the planning, logistics and customer service. Ensure that product is available, delivered on time and to the right quality, and that every customer receives fast, effective service. This is an executive position that is also highly hands-on, within a company of around 100 people: it combines strategic vision with direct involvement in day-to-day work.

Mission

Ensure that the company can grow and deliver on what it promises to its customers, with a high level of service, controlled costs and a committed team, in both Spain and Portugal.

What you will do

• Demand Planning & Stock
  • Lead the monthly sales and operations planning (S&OP) process with Sales, Marketing and Finance.
  • Ensure supply: manage order process, manage supplier relationships
  • Manage inventory: stock levels, stock coverage, obsolescence risks.
  • Define and deploy the adequate supply chain service offers to the customers.
  • Balance between service rates, logistics cost and stock level
  • Prepare the supply chain for launches, range changes and product withdrawals.
• Logistics and Distribution
  • Lead warehousing and distribution in Spain and Portugal, whether in-house or through logistics operators.
  • Manage carriers and operators: contracts, rates, service levels and claims.
  • Ensure delivery deadlines are met and reduce logistics cost per order or per unit.
  • Ensure compliance with the transport, storage and documentation regulations applicable in each country.
• Customer Service
  • Lead customer service: order processing, enquiries, delivery tracking, complaints and returns.
  • Define and meet service levels (response and processing times, first-contact resolution, satisfaction).
  • Promote digital channels and electronic ordering to scale the service without growing the structure at the same pace.
  • Turn incidents into learning: root cause analysis and action plans.

4. People and Leadership

• Lead, develop and retain the team, with clear objectives, individual follow-up and development plans.
• Ensure health and safety in the warehouse and operational workstations.
• Plan reinforcements for demand peaks and maintain a sustainable workload.
• Ensure coordination between customer service and supply chain, and between the Spain and Portugal teams.

5. Budget, Costs and Risks

• Prepare and manage the supply chain budget and control variances.
• Manage working capital tied to inventory together with Finance.
• Anticipate and manage continuity risks: supply shortages, supplier or carrier incidents, strikes and other events affecting supply chain.
• Report regularly to Management on results, risks and action plans.

6. Tools & Data

• Ensure the accuracy and completeness of the data in the systems (ERP, CRM, ...)
• Ensure that all team members master the use of the system
• Propose tools and systems evolution for better efficiency and better performance
• Collaborate with GA Corporate team on tools and process improvements

What you have

• University degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Logistics or equivalent; a master's degree in Operations or Supply Chain is desirable.
• 8-10 years of experience in demand planning, logistics or supply chain, and at least 3-5 years leading teams.
• Experience in a product company with B2B sales and, preferably, in multi-country environments.

Knowledge.

• Demand planning, S&OP and inventory management.
• ERP and warehouse management systems; data analysis and dashboards.
• Management of suppliers, carriers and logistics operators.
• Customer service and complaint handling.
• Continuous improvement and process management.
• Spanish: native or equivalent. English: professional level.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to join a well-established and innovative organization within the Consumer Goods sector.
• A business impact role in executing strategic marketing initiatives and contributing to the company’s growth in the region.
• A collaborative and mission-driven environment based on ethical values and sustainability prupose.
• A workplace committed to inclusion, diversity, and professional development.

Our client and our team are committed to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace. We encourage professionals from all backgrounds to apply.