The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Control Tower Manager (L5) to Director
3-5 years as a high-performing Control Tower Manager.Skills to master
- Moving from managing a team to managing a function
- developing multi-year strategic plans
- significant P&L accountability
- presenting to C-suite.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led a major control tower transformation project end-to-end.
- Consistently exceeded team KPIs and delivered significant cost savings.
- Demonstrated ability to influence cross-functional VPs and Directors.
- Developed and mentored multiple direct reports into senior roles.
- 2
Head of Logistics / Supply Chain Planning to Director
4-6 years in a similar senior leadership role in a related supply chain function.Skills to master
- Deepening expertise in real-time visibility technologies
- integrating planning with execution
- leading a dedicated visibility function.
You're ready to move on when
- Managed a large logistics or planning function with a significant budget.
- Implemented new planning or execution systems that improved efficiency.
- Proven ability to manage complex external vendor relationships.
- Strong track record of driving operational improvements and cost reductions.
- 3
External Hire (from a similar Director/VP role)
Immediate, assuming relevant experience.Skills to master
- Adapting to our specific company culture and existing supply chain network
- building immediate credibility with our executive team and board.
You're ready to move on when
- Already holds a Director or VP title in Operations Visibility or a closely related field.
- Has a proven track record of strategic leadership and transformation in a comparable industry.
- Can demonstrate immediate value and strategic insights during the interview process.