Shift Operations Manager

As a Shift Operations Manager, you will be responsible for managing all on-shift logistics operations, ensuring that warehouse activities, resource planning, and health and safety standards are consistently met. You will play a vital role in the day-to-day execution of logistics functions, supporting the Head of Logistics in achieving departmental KPIs and driving continuous improvement across shift operations. This role requires a hands-on leader with the ability to manage teams, optimize shift performance, and ensure seamless coordination with key internal departments. You will contribute to the efficient flow of goods, stock accuracy, and operational discipline, while ensuring a safe, compliant, and productive work environment.

Key Accountabilities

• Ensure full compliance with health and safety regulations during all shift operations.
• Conduct regular audits, safety briefings, and risk assessments to foster a safe working environment.
• Lead by example in promoting a strong safety culture on the shop floor.
• Oversee warehouse and logistics operations, ensuring productivity, quality and service targets are met.
• Manage shift handovers and ensure clear communication across teams.
• Plan and allocate shift resources in alignment with daily and weekly forecasts.
• Monitor attendance, manage shift coverage, and adapt plans in response to operational changes.
• Lead, motivate, and support team leaders and operatives to drive performance.
• Support development initiatives, including on-the-job training, skills assessments, and succession planning.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide regular feedback.
• Monitor key shift-level KPIs such as pick rates, accuracy, loading times, and downtime.
• Utilize tools such as Short Interval Control, Daily Review Meetings and GEMBA walks to identify and resolve performance issues in real-time.
• Identify and implement process improvements using lean logistics principles and data insights.
• Work closely with the inventory team to ensure accurate stock handling, cycle counts, and minimal variances.
• Promote adherence to inventory control procedures across all shift activities.
• Identify inefficiencies and propose operational changes to improve shift productivity and reduce costs.
• Collaborate with supply chain, planning and manufacturing teams to ensure operational alignment.
• Communicate shift performance, issues and opportunities to senior leadership and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with systems and processes, including WMS usage, equipment operation, and SOP adherence.
• Support the rollout and training of new systems and automation tools.

Skills/Experience

• Proven experience in logistics or warehouse operations leadership, ideally within an FMCG or e-commerce environment.
• Strong understanding of warehouse processes, stock movement, and health & safety regulations.
• Experience managing large teams in a shift-based or 24/7 operation.
• Proficient in logistics systems such as Warehouse Management Systems.
• Confident in analysing performance data and driving team accountability through KPIs.
• Hands-on knowledge of lean principles, 5S, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Effective communicator and team player with strong problem-solving and people management skills.