Head of Operations

Thames & Hudson Ltd is a world-renowned illustrated book publisher. We publish and globally distribute a significant list of our own titles as well as handling the sales and distribution on behalf of a large number of clients. We are looking for a Head of Operations, reporting to the CFO, who will have a diverse and wide-ranging role ensuring the smooth running of back office activities, including infrastructure and distribution arrangements fundamental to the success of our business.

The main areas of responsibility are:

• Managing the IT team and providing strategic direction for technology and systems.
• Managing via the Facilities department the central services within the company, including the post room and reception, security, cleaning and maintenance suppliers.
• Coordination of our supplier relationships for warehousing and fulfilment. External liaison (with third party distributors) and internal communication, providing guidance and advice, especially with the Sales, Marketing and Finance teams.
• Handling all aspects related to the property lease (i.e. rent, rates and services).
• Running various operational activities including Health & Safety oversight, Risk Management, Disaster Recovery, GDPR and insurance.
• Management of our bibliographic data. Responsible for overseeing the timely supply of high-quality title metadata to the market, and its integration with the distributors and our sister companies.

The role has direct budget responsibility for Central Facilities and Services, Property and IT along with indirect responsibility for warehouse charges, and manages nine members of staff, of which four are direct reports.

The successful candidate will most likely have a background in either publishing or distribution. They will have experience in project management, with a track record in initiating, leading and delivering projects. Experience of managing IT, with an understanding of systems development and data management, is essential. We would expect strong communication skills, with the ability to engage clearly with people across the whole range of the business.

Personal Attributes

• Personable, persuasive and positive, with the ability to tactfully use initiative and take a proactive approach to getting things done.
• Comfortable with handling activities both at a very detailed level and a high level; able to delve into the detail without losing sight of the strategic imperatives behind each project.
• Confidence and ability to work flexibly in a team, both with representatives from all levels within the business and partners from outside the company.
• Strong organisational skills, with a natural ability to prioritise a variety of tasks, methodical in approach and possessing a keen eye for detail with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong staff management skills and the ability to set clear direction and to monitor progress against objectives.
• Able to multitask without losing focus or energy, to set demanding but achievable objectives for oneself and others whilst taking personal responsibility for making things happen.
• Able to develop, nurture and manage supply chain relationships including consultants.
• Good IT skills; confident on Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook etc.)
• Possessing a good degree level qualification or equivalent. Experience of or exposure to Six Sigma or similar work methodologies would be an advantage.

This is an exciting chance to work on a wide variety of stimulating projects in a highly creative environment close to Covent Garden. To apply, please send your CV with a covering letter to Amy Carsen, Head of HR: a.carsen@thameshudson.co.uk

Closing date 31 October