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
VP of Regional Operations (e.g., EMEA, APAC)
3-5 years in a similar roleSkills to master
- Deep understanding of regional market dynamics, regulatory environments, and customer behaviours. Proven ability to scale operations within a specific geography while managing a large regional P&L and diverse teams.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led a major operational transformation within a large region.
- Consistently exceeded regional operational and financial targets.
- Developed strong relationships with regional sales, marketing, and finance leaders.
- Demonstrated ability to adapt global strategies to local contexts effectively.
- 2
Global Head of Supply Chain Planning
4-6 years in a senior planning roleSkills to master
- Expertise in demand forecasting, inventory optimisation, S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning), and integrated business planning across a global network. Strong analytical and strategic planning capabilities.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led the planning function for a complex global product portfolio.
- Implemented advanced forecasting and inventory optimisation models.
- Proven ability to balance service levels with inventory costs at a global scale.
- Strong track record of influencing product and sales teams on planning inputs.
- 3
Director of Manufacturing Operations (with strong post-production experience)
5-7 years in manufacturing leadershipSkills to master
- Deep understanding of product quality, repair processes, and the cost implications of manufacturing defects. Experience managing large-scale production facilities and driving continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma).
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully reduced manufacturing defects and improved product reliability.
- Led initiatives to improve repairability and serviceability of products.
- Managed complex factory operations with significant P&L responsibility.
- Demonstrated strong collaboration with product design and engineering teams.