Hi, I’m
Robert Carshagen
Dubai,UAE
Summary
Board-Level Operations & Supply Chain Executive with 20+ years of P&L leadership driving large-scale retail, grocery, and FMCG transformations across the UAE, GCC, and emerging markets. A trusted advisor to owners, boards, and CEOs, known for converting complex, fragmented operations into scalable, data-driven, and highly profitable business platforms. Strategic architect of modern omnichannel supply chains, AI-driven demand planning, and enterprise digital infrastructure (ERP/WMS) designed to optimize working capital and de-risk regional logistics.
Overview
7
years of post-secondary education
17
years of professional experience
Work history
ConfidentialDubai, UAE
General Manager
2025.08 - Current (10 education.months_Label)
Job overview
- Led end-to-end retail supply chain transformations across merchandising, sourcing, logistics, and store operations, delivering double-digit inventory reductions, improved on-shelf availability, and margin expansion for multi-channel retailers.
- Designed and executed global network optimization and cost-to-serve programs, balancing service, cost, and sustainability while supporting rapid growth, omnichannel fulfillment, and market expansion.
- Built and led high-performing consulting and client teams, shaping transformation roadmaps, governance, and KPIs, and ensuring measurable value realization from strategy through implementation.
- Negotiated with suppliers to secure the best prices, improving profitability.
- Developed training programmes for staff on updated logistic procedures and policies.
- Established successful partnerships with other companies for mutual growth.
- Worked with board of directors to establish objectives and decisively lead operations.
- Identified new business opportunities, leading to market expansion.
- Successfully negotiated contracts with suppliers to reduce costs.
- Maintained compliance with industry regulations at all times..
- AI-Driven Inventory & Logistics Optimization
- Identified and resolved operational issues impacting productivity, performance or profitability.
Organic FoodsDubai, UAE
Director of Operations
2014.08 - 2025.08 (11 education.years_Label)
Job overview
- Managed end-to-end supply chain, procurement, warehousing, and retail operations across 8 stores and 3 distribution hubs.
- Directed inventory, demand planning, and stock availability for multi-channel retail and e-commerce.
- Led warehouse optimization, automation, and redesigns improving throughput and accuracy.
- Ensured SLA compliance across suppliers, 3PLs, and internal stakeholders.
- Oversaw workforce planning, training, and performance management for 500+ staff.
- Developed annual budgets, forecasts, and cost-management frameworks aligned to P&L.
- Developed standard operating procedures, enhancing efficiency at all organisational levels.
- Executive oversight of multi-category food production facilities (meat, bakery, FMCG), with responsibility for HACCP systems, plant maintenance, asset management, utilities,Dubai Municipality compliance, and product registration.
Pick n Pay, RetailCape Town, South Africa
National Operations Manager
2013.08 - 2014.08 (1 education.year_Label)
Job overview
- Led retail and logistics operations across 25+ sites, standardizing KPIs and performance metrics.
- Delivered 12% cost savings through supplier consolidation and contract renegotiation.
- Improved stock accuracy and product availability via process standardization.
- Managed national budgets, forecasting, and performance improvement initiatives.
Pick n Pay DistributionJohannesburg, South Africa
Distribution Manager
2009.01 - 2013.08 (4 education.years_Label & 7 education.months_Label)
Job overview
- Directed high-volume distribution center operations with R2B+ annual throughput.
- Achieved R50M annual loss reduction by strengthening controls and supplier accountability.
- Increased warehouse productivity by 25% through SAP EWM automation.
- Implemented SOPs, audit compliance systems, and business continuity frameworks.
Education
University of SalfordUK
Master of Science from Supply Chain
2023.02 - 2024.11 (1 education.year_Label & 9 education.months_Label)
RAU UniversitySouth Africa
Associate's degree from MDP, General Management
2012.01 - 2012.12 (11 education.months_Label)
Gordon UniversityUSA
Bachelor of Commerce from Retail Management
1993.02 - 1997.11 (4 education.years_Label & 9 education.months_Label)
Skills
- Supply Chain Strategy & Operations
- Inventory Optimization & Demand Planning
- ERP / WMS (SAP EWM, CW Suite)
- FMCG & Retail Operations
- Procurement & Vendor Management
- 3PL & Distribution Management
- Budgeting, Forecasting & P&L Control
- KPI Governance & Performance Management
- Workforce Planning & Leadership
- Business Continuity & Risk Control
Accomplishments
- Boosted workforce productivity 30% through performance frameworks.
- Reduced losses by AED 5M via tighter operational controls and reporting.
- Achieved consistent SLA compliance across stores and distribution.
- Improved stock accuracy across multi-site retail operations.
- Delivered operational readiness for UAE–KSA expansion.
Languages
English
Native
Timeline
General Manager
Confidential
2025.08 - Current (10 education.months_Label)
University of Salford
Master of Science from Supply Chain
2023.02 - 2024.11 (1 education.year_Label & 9 education.months_Label)
Director of Operations
Organic Foods
2014.08 - 2025.08 (11 education.years_Label)
National Operations Manager
Pick n Pay, Retail
2013.08 - 2014.08 (1 education.year_Label)
RAU University
Associate's degree from MDP, General Management
2012.01 - 2012.12 (11 education.months_Label)
Distribution Manager
Pick n Pay Distribution
2009.01 - 2013.08 (4 education.years_Label & 7 education.months_Label)
Gordon University
Bachelor of Commerce from Retail Management
1993.02 - 1997.11 (4 education.years_Label & 9 education.months_Label)