Want to help shape the performance of a high-volume, international inbound operations? Then join us as an Inbound Operations Manager!
This role sits at the heart of inbound logistics, ensuring product moves seamlessly from suppliers to offshore hubs across Poland, Turkey, Sri Lanka and Malaysia. With full ownership of inbound operations, it brings together carrier performance, customs compliance and end-to-end shipment visibility to deliver on time and in full.
Leading partnerships with freight, carrier and customs providers, the focus is on driving accountability, optimising routing strategies and continuously improving service, cost and lead times. Working closely with sourcing teams, 3PL partners and internal stakeholders, this role ensures shipping compliance, accurate forecasting and aligned capacity planning across the network.
Combining operational oversight with strategic influence, it owns logistics KPIs, reporting and cost control, while shaping processes and standards
We are looking for someone who brings strong inbound logistics and 3PL management experience, with a clear understanding of international freight and customs. A confident, pace-driven decision-maker who can anticipate challenges, solve problems and keep product moving.
They will need to be an engaging collaborator who can influence across a global network, combined with a data-led mindset to turn insight into action using tools such as Excel, PowerPoint and Power BI. If this sounds like you we would love to hear from you!
NB: Although this role is based at our Paddington Support Office a minimum of three days a week some overseas travel will be required to either within the UK or internationally.
What you’ll do
Your key accountabilities will include:
Maintain and develop strong relationships with carriers, freight and customs partners, holding them accountable to KPIs, SLAs and continuous improvement.
Oversee end-to-end inbound shipments to international hubs, proactively managing performance, risks and delivery exceptions to ensure on-time flow.
Ensure customs compliance and import standards are met across the network, working closely with sourcing offices and suppliers to drive accurate, timely shipping.
Partner with 3PL and internal teams to align inbound volumes, capacity and intake, supported by clear KPI reporting and performance management.
Own routing strategy, freight optimisation and cost control, while leading reviews, supporting tender activity and driving continuous improvement across inbound logistics processes.
Who you are
Your skills and experience will include
Strong inbound supply chain and logistics experience, including 3PL management and oversight of inbound volumes within a fast-paced retail environment
Good understanding of international freight and customs requirements, ideally within fashion or multi-market operations
Confident decision-making with the ability to operate at pace, anticipate risks and proactively solve problems
Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across global, cross-functional teams
Analytical and data-driven, with experience interpreting performance data and using tools such as Excel, PowerPoint and Power BI
What’s in it for you?
Working at M&S means being part of something bigger - helping to deliver quality, value and service to millions of customers every day. We’re inclusive, fast-moving and always evolving, with a strong sense of purpose and a focus on doing the right thing.
Here are just a few of the benefits that make working here even more rewarding:
20% colleague discount on all M&S products and many third-party brands for you and someone in your household, available once you’ve completed your probation
Competitive holiday allowance with the option to buy more
Discretionary bonus schemes linked to your performance and ours
Strong pension and life assurance to help plan for the future
Tailored induction and training to support your development from day one
Exclusive perks and savings through our M&S Choices portal
Market-leading family policies, including parental, adoption and neonatal leave
24/7 wellbeing support, including virtual GP access and mental health services
One paid volunteer day a year to support a cause that matters to you
Everyone’s welcome
We are ambitious about the future of retail. We’re reinventing, innovating and leading the industry into a more conscientious, inspiring digital era. We’re redefining how we work together and offering our most exciting opportunities yet. Marks & Spencer strives to be an inclusive organisation, trusted and admired by our colleagues, customers and suppliers. Join us and make change happen.
We are committed to building diverse and representative teams, where everyone can bring their whole selves to work and be at their best. We support each other and work together to win together.
If you feel you'd benefit from any support or reasonable adjustments during any stage of the recruitment process, please don’t hesitate to let us know when completing your application. This information will be picked up by our team, so we can try and put steps in place to help you be at your best through this process.
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