Head of Operations
Bulboat is a boutique distributor focused on accelerating sales for innovative consumer products into the European retail market. Our mission is to bring exciting and innovative Pet, wellness, beauty, and kitchen products to retailers in Europe. We partner with the founders of successful US and Chinese-based start-ups, becoming their European head office, creating and delivering their sales and marketing strategy in a new territory.
Since beginning in 2008, we have launched nearly 100 brands and supply more than 100 of the largest retailers in Europe including Selfridges, John Lewis, Argos, Currys, Power, Elkjop, Boulanger, Fnac, Mediamarkt, Galaxus, Interdiscount and many more. We also own a wide range of our own and very exciting private label brands.
We are looking for an organized and detail-oriented person to manage the full logistic flow including warehousing, transportation, inventory control, and returns with a focus on optimizing company efficiency and ensuring customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing stock forecasts, analyzing transportation costs and working with 3PL to develop cost-effective dispatch strategies.
Reporting directly to the CEO the successfully appointed Head of Operations must have a retail experience as a Brand, Distributor supplying retailers across multiple retgions.
Key Responsibilities:
· Strategic Inventory & Forecast Management:
Lead the development of demand forecasting models and inventory planning strategies to ensure optimal stock levels. Align inventory targets with sales forecasts, minimizing stockouts and excess while supporting growth initiatives.
· Logistics & Transportation Optimization:
Analyze and negotiate transportation and distribution costs across domestic and international channels. Identify opportunities to improve cost-efficiency, delivery performance, and environmental impact.
· Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team. Collaborate closely with Sales, Finance and Marketing departments to align operational capabilities with company goals and deliver exceptional customer experience.
· Supply Chain Oversight & Performance Monitoring:
Oversee daily supply chain operations, ensuring timely delivery of products and services to customers. Monitor supplier performance, manage inbound and outbound logistics, and ensure effective handling of returns from both suppliers and customers.
· Import Compliance & Global Trade Management:
Ensure optimal performance in international import operations by ensuring compliance with customs regulations, accurate documentation, and adherence to all relevant trade laws, aiming to minimize delays and disruption.
Skills and Qualifications:
Ø Experience in senior operations, supply chain, or logistics leadership roles.
Ø Proven track record of optimizing transportation and distribution networks both domestically and internationally.
Ø Hands-on experience with import/export processes and global trade compliance.
Ø Proficiency in Sage or similar ERP software.
Ø Demonstrated ability to lead and develop cross-functional teams.
Ø Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with internal teams and external partners.
Ø Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex supply chain issues and develop actionable strategies.
Ø Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with a focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Ø Proficiency in Excel or similar spreadsheet software.
Ø Excellent communications skills in English
Additional Information: This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is looking for an opportunity to contribute to the efficiency of a growing team. The ability to handle multiple priorities while maintaining high levels of accuracy is crucial.