Karl Harwood
Principal & Stategic Lead @Blue Otter Limited
Signup · Get unlimited contacts
WORK HISTORY
Principal & Stategic Lead @Blue Otter Limited
Manchester, GB
At Blue Otter, we partner with high-growth businesses to realise long-term outcomes in cost, quality, and service through collaborative, data-driven methodology.• 3PL & Systems Evaluation: Leading end-to-end 3PL evaluation exercises and supply chain system audits (89 systems evaluated to date).• Carrier Management: Delivering cost-effective carrier solutions ranging from insightful diagnostics to fully managed outsource models.* Change Management: Acting as a results-driven partner for rapid diagnostics and project implementation.* Global Procurement: Managing transparent supply chain procurement and freight utilisation reviews.
EDUCATION
Glyn ADT Technology School
Media Studies & Religious Studies A-Level
SKILLS
ABOUT KARL HARWOOD
I am a Supply Chain Strategist who believes the supply chain is the backbone of the customer experience. Over the last 27 years, I have led logistics operations for some of the UK’s most dynamic brands, including Missguided, where we transformed the final mile into a competitive advantage that reduced cart abandonment by 26%.Currently, as the Principal at Blue Otter, I act as an interim executive for organisations facing critical inflection points—whether that is a complex 3PL tender, a digital transformation, or a need to rapidly strip cost without sacrificing service. I have delivered over £350m in savings for my clients, but my true passion lies in building resilient, agile teams that can weather any storm.Why Partner With Me?Proven Results: I have achieved £350m+ in savings across 65+ clients in varied business verticals.Deep Market Insight: I bring detailed working knowledge of 32 3PL providers and have analysed over 2,056 carrier options to ensure my clients get the best possible terms.Industry Recognition: I am a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Logistics and Transport (FCILT) and am trained to APM and PRINCE II standards.Operational Depth: My experience spans major international carriers, 3PLs, and market-leading software vendors, managing budgets up to £46m.Specialist Expertise:E-commerce & Tactical Sourcing: Optimising global delivery propositions and returns strategies.Rapid Cost Reduction: Identifying and executing efficiency opportunities through meticulous data analysis.Complex Logistics: Navigating automotive and industrial supply chains, including cross-border repairs, duty complexities, and dangerous goods.If you are looking to transform your operations from a cost centre into a growth engine, let’s connect.
This profile is compiled from publicly available professional sources. Unifers is not affiliated with or endorsed by LinkedIn. Request removal of this profile.