The company, a leading pan-Asian retailer, embarked on a journey of cross-regional retail innovation to streamline its operations and enhance growth.

Company Profile

Operating over 10,000 supermarkets, convenience, and health and beauty stores, this leading pan-Asian retailer is committed to providing quality and value through a compelling retail experience, delivered via a robust store network with efficient supply chains.

CEO’s Mission

The Group CEO recognised the necessity to leverage the company’s scale for increased revenue and profit. This ambition necessitated the integration of supply chains and technology across various brands and countries. With each brand operating multiple IT systems maintained by local teams, the CEO’s vision was to implement shared services and systems across the group to augment supply chain efficiency and curtail costs.

IT Director Objectives

  • Lead the regional IT team to build and execute a plan for shared systems and operations.
  • Collaborate with business leadership to identify and implement key growth initiatives.
  • Cultivate a culture of innovation, delivery, and operational excellence within the IT team.
  • Coach and mentor talent for future leadership roles and change projects.

What The IT Director Did

Provided Leadership And A Change Roadmap

To begin with, the IT Director performed a comprehensive review of the business, IT systems, and organisation. Collaborated with key business and IT leaders to develop and gain board approval for a list of initiatives, priorities, and associated costs.

Executed The Change Roadmap

Developed a standard operating model for supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores. Selected and implemented ERP systems suitable for the new operating model, reorganised the technology team, and outsourced operations to a shared service centre in Manila. Led a large regional IT team to implement major ERP and digital systems across the group. This marked a pivotal moment in cross-regional retail innovation.

Day-To-Day Management Of The Business

Ensured the continuity of existing retail systems amidst the change. Played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of innovation, managing day-to-day operations, and spotting opportunities for improvement. Built a team equipped with the talent, resources, and infrastructure to support the agreed direction of business.

The Results

  • Successfully secured a £25m investment to support new business plan 
  • Delivered shared ERP systems which were successfully piloted in China 
  • Reduced stock levels and working capital by 15% 
  • Reduced lead times for store and online business by 24 hours 
  • Improved operational efficiencies by 32%   
  • Reduced IT Operating costs by 20% 
  • Reduced stock levels and working capital by 15% 
  • Reduced lead times for store and online business by 24 hours 
  • Maintained customer satisfaction during the transformation   
  • Built a pool of talent to support the delivery of the change roadmap and beyond  
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