Lead Operations Research Scientist

Target’s Global Supply Chain and Logistics is evolving at an incredible pace. We
are constantly reimagining how we get the right product to the guest even
better, faster and more cost effectively than before. We are becoming more
intelligent, automated and algorithmic in our decision-making, so that no matter
how guests shop—in stores or on Target.com—we deliver the convenience and
immediate gratification they demand and deserve. We are on a mission to win
decisively over any competitor, with a seamless and superior guest service
experience unlike any they can offer. Our team’s work with the agility our
mission requires, and we constantly come together to implement new processes
in record time. We’re looking for exceptional people who are proactive, creative,
independent, innovative, risk-savvy and comfortable working in varying degrees
of ambiguity.

Are you a critical thinker who digs deep to find root causes and excels in both
qualitative and quantitative analysis? Can you identify inefficiencies in existing
systems, define clear problem statements, and swiftly develop and execute
effective solutions? If you’re also someone who inspires others to act, you’ll
thrive on one of our dynamic teams.
 

A role in Global Supply Chain and Logistics means creating industry leading
intelligence solutions to drive best in class omnichannel guest experiences at
the lowest cost to Target. You might focus on enabling the future transportation
operating model, optimizing inventory management, driving topology planning
or leveraging deep business insights and analytics to propel Target’s Supply
Chain. Super-powered first and foremost, by our people, and supported by
robust process and technology, we are a team of data-focused, curious minds
who love to solve hard problems to enable a dynamic, fast paced Supply Chain
Network. Our modern operating systems are built by Target and lead in the
arena of automated large-scale supply chain planning and optimization systems
running large-scale solves for complex optimization problems.
The Supply Chain Network Optimization team is part of Global Supply Chain and
Logistics team and responsible for providing insights, leading strategy, and
optimization-based initiatives to drive the efficiency of Target’s overall supply
chain network. The team member will need to use data engineering skills,
statistical knowledge, simulation and modelling techniques while collaborating
with data science, product, technology and business partners to transform
Target’s supply chain network. This role will support cross pyramid business
teams and coordinate solutions across enterprise functions impacting
productivity savings goals, system configuration accuracy (i.e. transit time, lead
time, etc.), product roadmaps and process optimization

Reporting/Working Relationships : Role is based out of Target in India HQ in
Bangalore. Role will report to the Director of Operations Research based out of
Target in India HQ in Bangalore. Role will work closely with Target Tech and
data science team across globe and partners closely with Digital, Global Supply
Chain & Logistics teams, Store Operations in USA
 

Principle Duties & Responsibilities
Analyse large volumes of granular supply chain data to develop key
performance metrics across sales, transportation, operations, and inventory.
Conduct root cause analysis to identify key drivers of operational
performance and variances from projected outcomes.
Collaborate with business to evaluate opportunities, quantify potential
improvements, and define key focus areas for enhancing guest experience
and cost efficiency in Target’s supply chain management (SCM).
Apply mathematical modelling, simulation techniques, and statistical analysis
to identify and solve complex supply chain challenges.
Work closely with cross-functional teams—including building operations,
transportation, and technology—to develop data-driven recommendations
and implement solutions.
Partner with product, analytical, and global supply chain teams to drive
business objectives such as reducing shipping expenses, improving network
speed, and optimizing inventory availability for various service levels.
Participate in pilot programs to validate business opportunities, ensuring a
smooth transition into standard processes where applicable.
Collaborate with data science and engineering teams to support the
deployment of algorithmic solutions for supply chain planning and control.
 

Requirements
Education: B.Tech/M.Tech/MS in a quantitative discipline such as
Engineering, Statistics, Operations Research, or Mathematics.
Experience: 8-10 years of relevant experience in retail/supply chain
management.
Analytical Skills: Strong experience in solving business problems using
data-driven analytical techniques. Passion for empirical research and solving
complex problems with data.
Technical Proficiency: Expertise in SQL, PySpark, and statistical tools such
as R or Python for data analysis and building prototypes.
oUnderstanding of algorithm analysis, computational complexity, and
optimization techniques.
Supply Chain Knowledge: Experienced in supply chain concepts such as
replenishment, purchasing, planning, optimization, and logistics
Research & Modelling: Proficiency in simulations, A/B testing, stochastic
models, forecasting, and mathematical modelling.
Software & System Knowledge: Technical aptitude and familiarity with
complex supply chain and logistics software systems.