Head of Automation

Bis Henderson; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics company in Birmingham is seeking a strategic Head of Automation to lead the transformation of their supply chain capabilities. The role involves defining and executing automation strategies, overseeing complex programmes, and managing substantial capital investment. Candidates must have proven experience in automation within logistics and a strong understanding of related technologies. The position requires an unrestricted right to work in the UK.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in automation leadership within logistics or manufacturing.
• Strong track record in delivering complex automation programmes.
• Deep understanding of warehouse automation technologies.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the automation strategy across the warehouse network.
• Lead end-to-end automation programmes from concept to delivery.
• Oversee solution design, implementation, and integration of systems.

Skills

Automation leadership

Stakeholder management

Supplier management

Strategic thinking

Job description

Are you ready to lead the future of warehouse automation? We're a leading logistics company with a national footprint and a bold vision for innovation. With multiple operational sites and a significant capital expenditure budget, we are investing heavily in cutting‑edge automation to transform our supply chain capabilities. We're seeking a strategic and delivery‑focused Head of Automation to spearhead this transformation.

Responsibilities

• Strategy & Roadmap: Defining and executing the automation strategy across our warehouse network.
• Programme Leadership: Leading end‑to‑end automation programmes—from concept through to delivery.
• Design & Delivery: Overseeing solution design, implementation, and integration of automated systems.
• Supplier Management: Building and managing relationships with key automation technology providers.
• CapEx Oversight: Managing a substantial capital investment budget to deliver high‑impact automation projects.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Working closely with operations, IT, engineering, and procurement teams.

Experience

• Proven experience in automation leadership within logistics, warehousing, or manufacturing.
• Strong track record in delivering complex automation programmes across multiple sites.
• Deep understanding of warehouse automation technologies (e.g., robotics, AS/RS, conveyor systems).
• Commercial acumen and experience managing large CapEx budgets.
• Excellent stakeholder and supplier management skills.
• Strategic thinker with hands‑on delivery capability.

All applicants must have an unrestricted right to work in the UK as our client will not support visa sponsorship for this role.