At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise warehouse operations and transport management for a growing drinks distributor.
- Company: Join Cellar Drinks Company, a reputable drinks distributor known for exceptional service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and opportunities for operational improvement.
- Other info: Hands-on role with excellent career growth potential in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of our warehouse operations and make a real impact in the industry.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in warehouse and transport management with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
About Us
Cellar Drinks Company is a growing drinks distributor, catering specifically to the licensed trade. Renowned for its exceptional service and diverse product range, the company has built a strong reputation in the industry. As we scale, we are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to take full ownership of our warehouse and transport functions, ensuring best-in-class operations, compliance, and team performance. Cellar Drinks Company values a collaborative approach within its team, driving continuous growth and operational excellence.
Role Overview
This is a senior, hands-on leadership role responsible for the full operational management of our new warehouse facility from September 2026. The role will incorporate all transport and distribution activities. You will oversee everything from warehouse layout and stock control to fleet compliance, route planning, and team leadership. You will ensure the business operates safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with all relevant regulations, including Health & Safety and Restricted Operator Licence requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Warehouse Operations
- Full responsibility for day-to-day warehouse operations (goods in/out, picking, packing, dispatch)
- Optimise warehouse layout, space utilisation, and workflow efficiency
- Implement and maintain robust stock control procedures, including cycle counts and stock audits
- Minimise stock loss, damage, and discrepancies
- Ensure accurate inventory management and reporting
- Oversee goods receipt processes, supplier deliveries, and quality checks
- Transport & Fleet Management
- Plan and manage all delivery routes and schedules to maximise efficiency and customer satisfaction
- Manage vehicle utilisation, maintenance schedules, MOTs, servicing, and defect reporting
- Ensure compliance with all Restricted Operator Licence obligations
- Monitor driver performance, tachograph records, and working time compliance
- Manage fuel usage, vehicle costs, and route optimisation
- Act as the main point of contact for transport compliance and audits
- Lead, manage, and develop warehouse and driver teams
- Create and manage rotas, ensuring adequate staffing at all times
- Manage holidays, sickness, absence, and disciplinary processes
- Recruit, onboard, and train new staff
- Set clear performance expectations and KPIs
- Build a strong, accountable, and safety-first team culture
- Health & Safety & Compliance
- Take full ownership of Health & Safety across warehouse and transport operations
- Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation (including manual handling, fire safety, vehicle safety, etc.)
- Conduct risk assessments, toolbox talks, and regular safety audits
- Maintain accident/incident reporting systems and lead investigations
- Ensure safe systems of work are implemented and followed
- Keep all compliance documentation up to date and audit-ready
- Customer Service & Delivery Performance
- Ensure all deliveries are completed on time and in full
- Handle escalations relating to delivery issues or service failures
- Continuously improve delivery performance and customer satisfaction
- Maintain strong communication between warehouse, drivers, and office teams
- Operational Strategy & Continuous Improvement
- Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs
- Monitor and report on KPIs (e.g. picking accuracy, delivery performance, cost per drop)
- Support business growth by scaling operations effectively
- Lead projects such as warehouse expansion, system upgrades, or fleet improvements
- Manage operational budgets including staffing, fleet, and warehouse costs
- Monitor labour efficiency and overtime
- Control costs relating to fuel, maintenance, and third-party services
- Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising service or safety
Requirements
- Proven experience in a senior warehouse/operations/transport management role
- Strong knowledge of warehouse operations and logistics/distribution
- Experience managing transport operations and fleet compliance
- Hands-on experience with Restricted Operator Licence requirements
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations and a commitment to workplace compliance and safety standards
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff effectively
- Excellent organisational, leadership, and problem-solving skills
- Experience within drinks distribution or wholesale
- Knowledge of tachograph regulations and driver hours
- Experience with WMS or logistics software
- Transport Manager CPC (or working towards it)
Personal Attributes
- Hands-on leader who leads from the front
- Highly organised and detail-oriented
- Commercially aware with a focus on efficiency and cost control
- Calm under pressure with strong decision-making ability
- Driven to improve systems, processes, and team performance
What We Offer
- Key leadership role in a growing business
- Opportunity to shape and improve operations
- Supportive and ambitious team environment
Warehouse Operations Manager in Crickhowell employer: Cellar Drinks Company
Cellar Drinks Company is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment where collaboration and continuous improvement are at the forefront. As a Warehouse Operations Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team in a new facility, driving operational excellence while benefiting from competitive salary packages and professional growth opportunities within a thriving drinks distribution sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Warehouse Operations Manager in Crickhowell
✨Get to Know Local Distribution Centres
Start hanging around local distribution centres and warehouses, like the ones that might belong to Cellar Drinks Company. Many times, they have sign-up sheets for job openings or even informal meet-ups that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Talk to Recruiters and Employment Agencies
There are loads of recruitment agencies that specifically focus on warehouse and logistics roles. Get in touch with them and let them know you’re looking for full-time work. They often have inside info on openings before they're advertised!
✨Brush Up on Your Skills
Think about the specific skills that are hot in the warehouse sector right now, like inventory management software or health and safety protocols. We can help you find resources to polish up your abilities, which can make you stand out when you're looking at those full-time gigs.
✨Apply Directly Through Us!
Don't forget to keep an eye on our website for any full-time listings at Cellar Drinks Company. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in logistics and warehousing!
We think you need these skills to ace Warehouse Operations Manager in Crickhowell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience with Inventory Management:When you're whipping up your CV, make sure to spotlight any experience you've got in inventory management or warehousing. We love to see proficiency in stock control systems or previous roles where you've managed inventory levels. Show us how you can keep things organised and running smoothly!
Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail:In the warehouse and logistics field, attention to detail is key. Use your cover letter to share specific examples of how you've caught mistakes or streamlined processes in the past. Let us know how your precision can contribute to our team at Cellar Drinks Company.
Get Familiar with Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to warehousing or logistics—like health and safety or forklift operation—make sure they shine on your CV! We appreciate all the qualifications that show you're serious about the role and keeping a safe, efficient workspace.
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills:Logistics can be unpredictable, so if you've tackled any significant challenges in previous positions, tell us all about it! Use your cover letter to highlight how you've adapted to situations, such as changes in supply or unexpected delays. We want to see your resourcefulness in action for this full-time role at Cellar Drinks Company.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cellar Drinks Company
✨Know Your Warehouse Systems
Familiarise yourself with popular warehouse management systems like SAP or Oracle. If you have experience using these or similar tools, be prepared to discuss how you utilised them to improve efficiency or accuracy in inventory management.
✨Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills
In the logistics arena, unexpected challenges pop up all the time. Be ready to share some examples of when you faced a logistical hiccup and how you tackled it. This shows you can think on your feet and keep things running smoothly.
✨Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Since it’s a full-time position, expect questions about your ability to work in a team in a busy warehousing environment. Share experiences where you collaborated with others, maybe to meet tight deadlines or manage large shipments, ensuring you showcase your ability to communicate effectively.
✨Safety First! Talk About Protocols
Logistics roles require a real understanding of safety protocols. Brush up on basic safety guidelines and be ready to discuss how you’ve implemented or adhered to these in past roles. This shows that you’re serious about your role in maintaining a safe working environment.
