At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to ensure top-notch customer service and efficient operations.
- Company: Join A.F. Blakemore, a leading UK family-owned business with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible hours, and fantastic perks like staff discounts and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive workplace that values diversity and offers growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in warehouse management and strong people management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Bedford depot MK41 7BJ
Salary: Competitive + benefits
About us:
At A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd, we’re proud of our heritage, but even more excited about our future. What started in Wolverhampton in 1917 as a small, family-run grocery store has grown into one of the UK’s largest privately owned businesses, employing over 5,000 people and generating a turnover of £1.2 billion. We combine the strength of a global brand, while maintaining the values of a family business. We’re constantly evolving, always looking for new and better ways to serve our customers and support our colleagues, making this an exciting place to build your career.
Today, we operate at the heart of communities across the UK, with 243 SPAR convenience stores and a thriving business spanning retail, food service, and wholesale distribution. Food and drink remain at the core of everything we do, driving our passion for quality, innovation, and exceptional customer experiences.
SPAR is the world’s largest international food retail chain, encompassing more than 13,800 stores in 48 countries. With more than 2,600 stores and a turnover in excess of £3 billion, SPAR is also the UK’s leading convenience store group. Being a ‘symbol’ group means that individual SPAR members retain their independence but enjoy the many benefits of being a part of a global brand.
Duties include:
- Performance management to achieve targeted levels of customer service and cost management.
- Deployment of operating procedures and develop/review procedures where needed.
- Leadership of shift managers and team leaders to ensure staff are competent, well managed and motivated to perform at their best.
- Adherence to safety standards and that any matters are reported and investigated.
- Maintenance of warehouse and site security.
- Application of the Blakemore Way in the approach to people management.
- Review staff performance and potential to develop competence and support succession planning.
- Comply with legal and company policy for H&S, Environment, Employment and Data protection.
- Support the overall development of the DC in areas such as operating budgets, cost management, KPIs, etc.
- Demonstrate the behaviours that underpin the company values.
In addition to a minimum three years warehouse management experience, we are looking for people who can demonstrate competence in:
- Providing leadership and direction.
- Effective people management (incl. team building and motivating, coaching and performance management, 1-2-1 and Team communications).
- Process management (incl. embedding new processes) and continuous improvement.
- Problem solving / using own initiative.
- Organisation planning and follow-up.
- Proactive management style to deal with concerns before they become issues.
- Prioritisation and a sense of urgency.
- Using management information and KPIs to improve performance.
What’s in it for you?:
You will play a vital role in our business and have a huge impact on our success so not only will you receive excellent training, support and continued development but we will also offer a competitive salary and superb benefits package.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Develop your skills and capability in a highly supportive and multi-diverse culture.
- Outstanding Training & Development opportunities.
- Gain hands-on experience in a high volume, fast paced environment.
- Enhanced Maternity & Paternity pay packages.
- Flexible working hours opportunity.
- Excellent additional benefits package including:
- Early access to your pay through ‘EarlyPay’.
- 24/7 access to your payslips via HR/Payroll portal.
- 12.5% Staff discount on fresh items & 10% Staff Discount on ambient products in our SPAR stores (ex. Alcohol & Cigarettes).
- Wellbeing support – access to emotional support, counselling, legal and financial advice.
- Company Pension Scheme.
- Company Life Insurance worth 1 x Annual Salary and 6 x Annual Salary with Company Pension Scheme.
- NEST pension scheme.
- Extra Holiday - Purchase Scheme.
- Long Service Awards.
Inclusive environment: as a Disability Confident Committed employer we are dedicated to creating a fair, inclusive workplace for all. We offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role.
You may have experience in the following: Shift Manager, Warehouse Shift Manager, Distribution Centre Shift Manager, Operations Shift Manager, Logistics Shift Manager, Warehouse Supervisor, Warehouse Operations Manager, Depot Manager, Distribution Supervisor, Logistics Supervisor, Fulfilment Centre Manager, Warehouse Team Manager, DC Operations Manager, Warehouse Team Leader, Supply Chain Shift Manager, etc.
Shift Manager (AM shift) employer: AF Blakemore - Logistics
A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd is an exceptional employer that combines the heritage of a family-run business with the dynamism of a large, privately owned company. Located in Bedford, employees benefit from a supportive and inclusive work culture, outstanding training and development opportunities, and a competitive salary alongside a comprehensive benefits package. With a focus on employee growth and well-being, this is a fantastic place to build a meaningful career in a fast-paced environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Manager (AM shift)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend local events, and connect with current employees at A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company culture and values. A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd prides itself on its family business roots and community focus, so be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. As a Shift Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to motivate and manage a team effectively. Share specific examples of how you've led teams in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd family.
We think you need these skills to ace Shift Manager (AM shift)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Leadership Skills:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. We want to see how you've motivated and managed teams in the past, so share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead effectively.
Be Specific About Your Experience:Don’t just list your previous roles; dive into the details! Talk about your warehouse management experience and how you’ve tackled challenges. We love hearing about your problem-solving skills and how you’ve improved processes.
Align with Our Values:Take a moment to understand our company values and reflect them in your application. We’re all about community and quality, so show us how you embody these principles in your work and interactions with others.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at AF Blakemore - Logistics
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd. Understand their history, values, and what makes them unique in the retail and food service industry. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their company culture.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Shift Manager, you'll need to demonstrate effective leadership. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed teams, motivated staff, or resolved conflicts. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Think of scenarios related to performance management, safety standards, and process improvements. Practise articulating how you would handle these situations, focusing on your proactive management style.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Safety and Compliance
Safety is paramount in warehouse operations. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of health and safety regulations and how you've ensured compliance in previous roles. Mention any specific procedures you've implemented or improved to maintain a safe working environment.
