At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead logistics operations and drive performance at our Grantham Distribution Centre.
- Company: Join Cancer Research UK, a leading charity dedicated to beating cancer.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous benefits, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a cause-driven environment while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in logistics and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
£55,000 - 60,000 plus benefits
Reports to: Head of Distribution and Logistics
Directorate: Marketing, Fundraising & Engagement
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time 35 hours per week
Location: 5 days on site at Grantham, National Distribution Centre The Mushroom Farm, Barkston Heath, Grantham, NG32 2DE
Closing date: 2nd August 2026 23:55.
Visa sponsorship: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Cancer Research UK is not able to offer visa sponsorship.
Recruitment process:
- 1st stage competency-based interview via Microsoft Teams
- 2nd stage in person interview will include a pre-prepared 30, 60, 90 presentation.
As part of the process, if you are successful through to the 2nd stage, we will require you to visit our Grantham site before your 2nd stage interview. More details will be shared at the time of invite.
Interview date: 1st stage 13 August 2026, 2nd stage 1st September.
At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer. We are looking for a proactive and motivated logistics and supply chain professional to join us at our Grantham Distribution Center as an Operations Manager.
The Distribution and Logistics Operations Manager will have full site accountability, with responsibility for operational delivery, people leadership and real-time commercial performance. Working closely and deputising for the Head of Distribution & Logistics, the successful candidate will also play a key role in shaping and delivering national strategy while maintaining deep operational ownership of the distribution centre.
In this hybrid role, you will combine strategic influence with hands-on leadership, providing an excellent opportunity to drive performance, lead high-performing teams and contribute to the continued success of a national logistics operation.
What will I be doing?
- Deputise for the Head of Logistics & Distribution, stepping into functional leadership when required
- Contribute to strategy development, business planning, and senior decision-making
- Translate strategy into clear operational plans and execution
- Full ownership of site KPIs (cost, service, productivity, safety)
- Lead a multi-layered team through supervisors and warehouse assistants (c12 direct reports)
- Build capability, engagement, and succession strength across the site
- Embed a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, leading on these initiatives across processes and systems
- Partner with supply chain, retail, and third-party providers
- Align operational delivery with commercial and trading priorities
- Own the site budget (labour, agency, operating costs)
- Deliver cost efficiency and productivity improvements
- Support forecasting, capacity planning, and performance management
- Ensure compliance with health & safety and regulatory standards
- Proactively manage operational risks and performance issues
What are we looking for?
- Extensive experience in retail logistics / supply chain operations
- Proven senior leadership experience in a distribution environment, with the ability to operate credibly at senior level
- Experience leading large, multi-layered operational teams
- Experience with 3PLs and complex stakeholder environments
- Strong strategic thinking and commercial awareness
- Ability to influence at senior level and lead transformation
- Excellent problem-solving, planning, and decision-making skills
- Experience with WMS and data-driven performance management
- Experience deputising or operating at Head-of-function level would be beneficial
Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do:
- Bold: Act with ambition, courage and determination
- Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism
- Human: Act to have a positive impact on people
- Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively
We're looking for people who can believe in and embody these organisation values and can use them to drive forward progress against our mission to beat cancer.
If you're interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience we'd still love to hear from you.
What will I gain?
We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career and achieve your personal wellbeing goals.
You can explore our benefits by visiting our careers web page.
How do I apply?
We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to complete the work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. Please note that applications can't be edited once submitted.
For more information on this career opportunity please visit our website or contact us.
For more updates on our work and careers, follow us on: Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
Operations Manager (Distribution and Logistics) in Sleaford employer: Cancer Research UK
Cancer Research UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Stratford, London, where you can make a meaningful impact on health partnerships. With a strong emphasis on employee well-being, we provide flexible working arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package that supports a healthy work/life balance, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and development within the organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager (Distribution and Logistics) in Sleaford
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Cancer Research UK and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Cancer Research UK!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Cancer Research UK keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager (Distribution and Logistics) in Sleaford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Cancer Research UK:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Cancer Research UK. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cancer Research UK
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Cancer Research UK.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Cancer Research UK that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Cancer Research UK. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
