Overview
We are now on the hunt for someone to join this great team as Product Development & Supply Chain Manager. This is a pivotal role with responsibility for liaising with TPE regarding the on board product offer for both the First Class menus and the Retail tariff. The role will ensure that all required supply chain processes are in place for the RG service centres across the route and will lead liaising with TPE and the RG teams to ensure on board product quantities meet expected customer demands.
RG has an exciting opportunity for a Product Development and Supply Chain Manager working on the TransPennine Express (TPE) account. The primary responsibilities are below.
Responsibilities
* Manage a portfolio of suppliers (including bespoke TPE route specific) and product lines
* Manage the product development process for the route
* Regular liaison with the client to ensure their requirements are understood and delivered
* Work with RG Heston to ensure that product presentations are delivered within the required timescales
* Ensure consistent quality of products to specifications and manage stock level commitments
* Manage day-to-day supply chain activities and find product solutions quickly to overcome issues, minimising impact to the client and the RG business
* Directly manage the Service Centre Team Leaders regarding orders and stock levels, via regular meetings and updates, ahead of a new menu or Retail Launch
* Compile staff briefs for On Board and Service Centres teams at each new menu and/or Retail tariff change
* Liaise with TPE to agree stock levels for each train and communicate these to the RG team as necessary
* Manage the online system for storing product information
* Arrange product presentations and showcases around the TPE route as required
* Compile reports, generate data/statistics with benchmarking and pricing exercises when required
* Liaise with the wider product development/supply chain/purchasing RG teams to ensure best practice
* Liaise with the RG service centres weekly to maintain supply chain integrity
* Undertake ad hoc duties and projects as required
Main responsibilities and collaboration
Reporting to the Key Account Manager, the successful candidate will manage a portfolio of suppliers and products to ensure high levels of product innovation and availability. Based in Manchester, the role requires strong customer-facing skills both externally and internally. The objectives include working with TPE (Hospitality Lead/Delivery Manager/Insight Manager as main points of contact) and the RG operational team to develop menus and tariffs, ensuring the On Board catering offer remains at the leading edge of customer service. The role also involves sourcing new products and ensuring efficient and cost-effective security of the supply chain; strong supplier management skills are therefore essential. Local supplier and SME engagement is encouraged where possible, while ensuring the supply chain remains workable for all parties. The following RG personnel are typically involved with the TPE account:
1. Service Centre Managers and Team Leaders
2. On Board Standards Manager
3. Operations Manager
4. Operations Administrator
Effective communication is essential during menu and tariff changes to ensure On Board Customer Hosts and Service Centre Customer Service Assistants understand product expectations in terms of storage, handling, delivery and customer presentation.
Qualifications & Requirements
* Enthusiastic with a can-do attitude
* Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills to work with colleagues at all levels
* Strong focus on quality
* Personable and presentable when regularly dealing with the client
* Ability to work under pressure
* Problem solving and analytical skills
* Willingness to travel across the route and beyond as required
Desirable
* Management experience, preferably in a food-oriented environment
* Previous experience in purchasing, product development or supply chain environments
* Results oriented/able to meet deadlines
* Credible leader and natural motivator
* Professional
* Excellent planning and organisational skills
* Retail Industry Experience
About the Company
SSP is a global leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations employing 49,000 colleagues in around 3,000 units across nearly 40 countries. We specialise in designing, creating and operating a diverse range of food and drink outlets in airports, train stations and other travel hubs. In the UK and Ireland, we operate over 450 sit-down and quick service restaurants, bars, cafés, lounges, and food-led convenience stores at around 170 locations. Our portfolio includes own brands such as Upper Crust and AMT Coffee, and brands like Millie’s Cookies, Shelby, M&S Food, Starbucks and Burger King. We aim to deliver a sustainable and high-quality customer experience across journeys and travel hubs. Rail Gourmet (RG) is a part of SSP and provides food, beverage and solutions to the rail industry, including on-board catering on TransPennine Express (TPE) trains.
As Product Development & Supply Chain Manager, you’ll be rewarded with a competitive salary of £34,500 p.a. and enjoy a Leisure pass for TPE train travel after 3 months.
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