Job Overview & Organization Mission

Model national distribution footprints, freight lane economics, and algorithmic routing to optimize multi-billion dollar retail supply networks.

Coles Group is seeking a Lead Supply Chain Network Optimization Analyst at our Store Support Centre in Hawthorn East, Melbourne. You will formulate mathematical optimization models, evaluate greenfield distribution centre locations, and simulate freight flow dynamics across automated fulfillment networks to reduce cost-per-carton and carbon emissions.

As a key member of the team at Coles Supply Chain in Melbourne, VIC, you will play a central role in driving excellence, upholding top-tier Australian industry standards, and contributing directly to the strategic milestones of one of the nation’s premier employers.

Key Duties & Core Responsibilities

In this critical role, your operational duties and key performance responsibilities will encompass:

• Construct enterprise: Construct enterprise supply chain digital twin models using Llamasoft Supply Chain Guru and AnyLogic.
• Solve mixed-integer: Solve mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) network design problems using Python, PuLP, and Gurobi.
• Model transport: Model transport lane modal shifts (road to rail) to lower supply chain freight costs and Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions.
• Evaluate store: Evaluate store catchment allocations and warehouse service level trade-offs.
• Present strategic: Present strategic network capital investment recommendations to executive supply chain leadership.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

To be successful in this position at Coles Supply Chain, candidates are expected to satisfy the following essential selection criteria:

• Mandatory Qualification: Master or Degree in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Data Science, or Logistics.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 5+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or Supply Chain Analytics.
• 5+ years experience building mathematical supply chain optimization models.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Llamasoft Supply Chain Guru, AnyLogic, Python, and SQL.
• Exceptional executive storytelling and data visualization capabilities.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

The successful applicant will possess demonstrated capabilities across the following domain skill sets:

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

At Coles Supply Chain, we understand that our people drive our achievements. An outstanding remuneration and wellbeing package is provided in line with Australian benchmarks:

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$140,000 – AU$175,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• Remuneration $140,000 – $175,000 + 11.5% super + Coles executive STI bonus.
• Team member discount cards across Coles Supermarkets and Liquorland.
• Flexible hybrid working environment with state-of-the-art campus amenities.
• Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave (with 17.5% annual leave loading where applicable) plus 10 days paid personal/carer’s leave.
• Flexible Work: Progressive work-life balance options with supportive corporate culture and leadership development pathways.

About the Employer: Coles Supply Chain

Coles Group is one of Australia’s leading retailers, delivering groceries, liquor, and fuel to millions of customers weekly.

Coles Supply Chain is deeply committed to building diverse, equitable, and culturally inclusive work environments. We proudly celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all qualified individuals including First Nations Australians, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Application Process & Next Steps

Applications for this position are currently open and being reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the published closing date.

Please prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a tailored Cover Letter highlighting your relevant experience against the key selection criteria outlined above.

To proceed with your application, click the Apply on Employer Site button to access the official Coles Supply Chain careers gateway.