Senior Operations Support Manager - Automated Warehouse in Birmingham

Our team members are at the heart of everything we do. At Cencora, we are united in our responsibility to create healthier futures, and every person here is essential to us being able to deliver on that purpose. If you want to make a difference at the center of health, come join our innovative company and help us improve the lives of people and animals everywhere.

Job Purpose

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Operations Support Shift Manager to play a key role in the successful operation of our Central Logistics Centre. Supporting warehouse operations across multiple functions, you will work closely with Operations Shift Managers and senior stakeholders to drive performance, ensure compliance, optimise resources, and deliver exceptional service levels. Acting as an extension of the Operations Lead, you will help translate strategic priorities into operational excellence while fostering a culture of safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Principal Accountabilities

• Support warehouse operations across inbound, automation, replenishment, picking, and outbound functions to ensure safe and efficient service delivery.
• Act as a key escalation point for operational issues, ensuring timely resolution and minimal disruption to operations.
• Coordinate labour planning, resource allocation, and operational priorities to achieve service and productivity targets.
• Monitor operational performance and KPIs, implementing improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and service excellence.
• Provide leadership support and cover for Shift Managers during periods of absence, increased demand, or operational change.
• Lead and support continuous improvement projects, process standardisation, and operational change programmes.
• Champion health and safety, quality, and compliance standards across all operational activities.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to support operational effectiveness and customer satisfaction.

Skills and Knowledge

• Proven experience in a warehouse operations, logistics, or distribution leadership role.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience monitoring and improving operational KPIs, productivity, and service performance.
• Strong knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS) and automated warehouse technologies.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a proactive approach to issue resolution.
• Experience working within regulated operational environments and adhering to compliance standards.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and operational reporting tools.

Desirable

• Experience within the pharmaceutical, healthcare, or highly regulated logistics sector.
• Knowledge of GDP, MHRA, or equivalent regulatory frameworks.
• Experience supporting or deputising for senior operational leaders.
• Familiarity with Knapp and Manhattan warehouse management systems.
• Experience within a 24/7 automated warehouse environment.
• Knowledge of inventory management and stock control processes.
• Experience leading continuous improvement and operational change initiatives.
• Understanding of ESG frameworks and operational compliance requirements.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work within a leading healthcare and pharmaceutical distribution organisation.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Career progression within a growing and innovative business.
• Exposure to advanced warehouse automation and logistics technology.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunity to lead impactful operational improvement initiatives.
• Employee wellbeing and support programmes.