Optimisation Specialist
Drive operational efficiency and strategic alignment across our supply chain.
Permanent, full-time role.
Favona location.
Welcome to Primary Connect | Nau mai ki Primary Connect
Primary Connect is the most extensive food and retail supply chain network in Australia and New Zealand. Our 10,000-strong team are an essential part of the expansive Woolworths Group, which encompasses Woolworths Supermarkets and Metro stores, BIG W, Countdown NZ, Quantium, and more. With us, your possibilities are not limited to a single opportunity.
We’re delivering to more than 3,000 retail stores every day (stores like Woolworths, BIG W, Dan Murphy’s, and BWS), but at Primary Connect, we’re more than just a supply chain business. We’re a big team, but every individual plays a pivotal role and leaves a distinctive impact.
Our extensive reach opens up boundless opportunities for learning, growth, and professional development. By raising your hand, fostering relationships, and seizing the moment, you can take control of your own unique path.
What you’ll do | Hei mahi
As an Optimisation Specialist, you will be instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency and driving strategic alignment across our supply chain. This pivotal role involves overseeing the governance of our Productivity Program, leading high-impact optimisation initiatives, and leveraging data to guide critical business decisions and technological advancements.
Champion, drive, and engage in stand-alone and program-based optimisation opportunities to deliver significant operational efficiency across the business.
Conduct in-depth analytical exercises, including cost-benefit analysis and ROI calculations, to provide data-driven insights that inform and guide improvement strategies.
Oversee the governance of the Productivity Program rollout within Primary Connect New Zealand, ensuring all initiatives are strategically aligned with company objectives.
Support the development of comprehensive business cases for new initiatives and the effective deployment of AI technologies to enhance productivity.
Lead change management efforts associated with optimisation projects, ensuring smooth transitions and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
What you’ll bring | Hei koha
We are looking for a results-driven professional with the initiative, self-confidence, and resilience to independently champion change and back their data-driven recommendations. You will be comfortable managing competing priorities and working effectively with geographically dispersed and senior teams.
Proven ability to interrogate complex analytics, lead quality in-depth analysis (including Root Cause Analysis), and provide thought leadership to further data insights.
Deep, end-to-end knowledge of a Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) supply chain operating model across all levels.
Demonstrated expertise in change management, stakeholder engagement, and the ability to influence cross-functional teams and senior managers (up to General Manager level).
An understanding of operational efficiency methodologies like Lean Six Sigma, coupled with experience in Agile methodology ways of working.
Strong communication skills (written and spoken) and the self-confidence to escalate issues where required to drive results.
What you’ll experience | Ngā Huanga
Everything we do is driven by a culture of care for our team, customers, and community.
We create a thriving team experience through a culture of belonging that champions safety and wellbeing for our people and partners.
We’re a team-first organisation. We’ll equip you with the necessary training for success in your role, and provide continuous career development and learning opportunities.
We offer competitive remuneration and access to a number of employee benefits.
We prioritise sustainability, striving to contribute to a greener, better future. Check out our most recent Sustainability Report to find out how we do it.
A range of programs to help you prioritise and manage your wellbeing, including a competitive leave policy and 24/7 access to the Sonder app.
Want to know what it’s like to have a career with us? Check out this short summary of the career of one of our excellent 2022 Team Members of the Year, Jesna.
Apply now! Applications close Thursday 16th April, 2026.
Everyone belongs at Woolworths Group | No Woolworths tātou
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are key to realising our purpose of better together for a better tomorrow. We recognise the value our team’s diversity brings to our business, customers, and communities and that teams with diverse experiences and backgrounds enrich our group and are better able to innovate and solve problems. As one of the largest employers in Australia and New Zealand, we aim to create a truly inclusive workplace where everyone feels that they belong, can be their best selves, and reach their full potential.
We encourage all candidates to apply; please let us know in your application if we can support you with any adjustments in the hiring process.
See how we’re creating better experiences together, for a better tomorrow