Network Strategy Lead

Network Strategy Lead (Sales Operations & Property)

Help shape the future of the Rexel UK branch network—identifying where we should grow, how we should optimise, and which opportunities we should acquire.

We’re looking for a commercially minded, data-led strategist who can spot “white space” opportunities, build compelling investment cases, and then mobilise approved initiatives through to successful delivery. This is a high-impact role with visibility at senior leadership level, influencing where and how we invest in our physical network.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll lead opportunities from concept to approval to delivery—balancing strategy, commercial rigour, and operational practicality.

Network growth & optimisation

• Identify and quantify “white spot” opportunities and network optimisation initiatives across the estate.
• Maintain strategic oversight of the network portfolio, tracking progress and outcomes.
• Present clear, evidence-based recommendations and act as the strategic voice for network investment decisions.

Business cases & investment decisions

• Develop robust, data-backed business cases (including investment appraisal, risk and ROI).
• Secure stakeholder alignment and approval through compelling insight and influence.

Mobilisation & delivery

• Mobilise approved initiatives into delivery in partnership with Property and Facilities.
• Partner with Sales Operations Leads to ensure new or changed locations are operationally viable and launch-ready.

Innovation & pilots

• Design and pilot new branch formats, services and propositions—capturing learnings to shape future network strategy.

M&A assessment

• Lead assessment of M&A opportunities, providing recommendations on network fit, location strategy, commercial viability and integration considerations to support acquisition decisions.

What you’ll bring

• Strong commercial acumen, with the judgement to balance competing priorities.
• Experience in network planning, location strategy, and/or estate optimisation in a multi-site environment.
• A highly analytical, data-driven approach with strong problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to build and present compelling business cases to senior stakeholders.
• Experience leading pilots, trials and innovation initiatives.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing capability (including at senior leadership level).
• Track record of mobilising projects from concept through to delivery.
• Solid understanding of investment appraisal, risk and ROI.
• Experience assessing M&A opportunities (commercial due diligence, network fit, valuation inputs, risk assessment, and integration considerations).

Key relationships

You’ll work closely with:

• Sales Ops & Property Director (reporting line)
• Sales Director & Regional Heads of Sales
• Property Team
• Facilities & Projects
• Finance
• Sales Operations Leads

How success will be measured (KPIs)

• Network growth opportunities approved and delivered
• Reduction in network coverage gaps (“white spots”)
• New branch openings and optimisation projects completed
• Increased footfall and utilisation at new locations
• Time from opportunity identification to approval
• Delivery of forecast commercial benefits and ROI
• Successful implementation of pilots and new formats
• Stakeholder satisfaction with network development initiatives
• M&A opportunities assessed, approved and integrated—delivering planned commercial benefits, network value and ROI

Our culture

At Rexel UK, we’re building a high-performance culture where individuality is valued and fresh thinking is encouraged—because diverse experiences and perspectives help drive better ideas and better outcomes. We’re committed to fair, inclusive recruitment and a workplace where people feel they belong.

The Benefits of a Career with Rexel:

• Company Car Scheme (cash allowance or a electric/hybrid vehicle from our dedicated fleet team)
• Private Medical Insurance (PMI) with Bupa
• Bonuses: Performance Related Bonus Scheme
• Time Off: 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays, increasing throughout the years too!) 
  • You can also buy and sell holiday each year 
  • Enhanced parental leave 
• Support & Development: Extensive learning opportunities from day one. 
• Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance/Free virtual GP service, Healthy Mind Champions, and more! 
• Perks: Contributory pension scheme and life assurance, Staff discounts, exclusive holiday offers and free financial support and education

At Rexel UK, we’re all about welcoming people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives because we know that diversity drives fresh ideas and great results.

By coming together as one team, we’re building a high-performance culture that not only drives success but also creates real value for our customers and communities.

Creating an environment where individuality is celebrated and creativity flourishes, we're making sure everyone feels supported and confident to be their best.