At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations at a new Distribution Centre, ensuring top-notch service and efficiency.
- Company: Join Columbia Sportswear, a passionate outdoor brand with a vibrant team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy unlimited LinkedIn Learning, in-house training, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Work in a multicultural environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting start-up phase and make a real impact on logistics.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in logistics or warehouse management, strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Locations: Tamworth, England, United Kingdom
Time type: Full time
Posted on: Posted Today
Job requisition id: R-
Reports to: Distribution Director Europe
Permanent contract
Start date: at the earliest convenience
At Columbia Sportswear, we’re as passionate about the outdoors as you are. Every product we make and every task we undertake is inspired by the famous words of our founder Gert Boyle: “It’s perfect. Now make it better.” As pioneers of relentless improvement, we are constantly evolving.
Discover a world of diversity within our team of 700+ across 13 European countries, united by the common goal of elevating Columbia to the pinnacle of outdoor brands in Europe. Our omnichannel approach seamlessly integrates Columbia and Sorel brands' engaging in-store and online experiences.
We believe the outdoors is ours to protect and strive to keep our planet healthy. We believe in empowering people to experience the outdoors to the fullest.
ABOUT THE MISSION
To support our fast-growing business in the UK, we are opening a new Distribution Centre in Tamworth (Birmingham Area) in partnership with Maersk (3PL). This site will serve both wholesale and e-commerce customers, reinforcing our ability to deliver best-in-class service and flexibility in one of our most dynamic markets.
This is a new position created to ensure operational excellence and service reliability at our future 3PL-run Distribution Centre in Tamworth. As our 3PL Operations Manager, you will be Columbia’s on-site representative and the key interface between Columbia’s European logistics organization and Maersk, our logistics partner operating the facility. You will report to the Distribution Director Europe, based in Cambrai (France).
Your mission:
- Ensure our 3PL delivers best-in-class service, quality, and efficiency aligned with Columbia’s standards;
- Build a strong and trustworthy partnership with Maersk;
- Anticipate and resolve operational issues;
- Communicate proactively with internal and external stakeholders to ensure transparency and alignment.
This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of the start-up and ramp-up phase of a new strategic facility — from project preparation to go-live and steady-state operations.
HOW YOU’LL MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
- Act as Columbia’s operational representative on-site, monitoring 3PL performance on service, cost, and quality metrics.
- Ensure Maersk’s daily operations (receiving, storage, picking, packing, shipping) run smoothly and according to contract and service level agreements.
- Lead daily/weekly performance reviews, track KPIs, and ensure corrective action plans are implemented when needed.
- Proactively communicate with internal teams (Planning, Customer Service, Transportation, Finance) to align priorities and solve issues.
- Participate in project preparation and go-live activities for the Tamworth DC launch in 2026.
- Support seasonal ramp-ups and ensure readiness for peak periods.
- Identify process improvement opportunities and drive continuous improvement initiatives with the 3PL.
- Ensure health, safety, and compliance standards are met at all times.
YOU ARE
- A strong communicator and relationship builder, capable of collaborating effectively with external partners and internal teams.
- Assertive, structured, and solution-oriented — able to challenge the 3PL constructively and ensure commitments are met.
- Autonomous, organized, and accountable — comfortable working independently while keeping your manager informed.
- Analytical and pragmatic, combining operational understanding with data-driven decision-making.
- Proactive and curious — eager to contribute to the success of a new logistics site and make an impact from day one.
YOU HAVE
- 7+ years of experience in warehouse operations or logistics management, ideally within a 3PL or distribution environment, with strong knowledge of warehouse processes (inbound, outbound, fulfillment, returns).
- A background in retail, apparel, or consumer goods distribution is a strong plus — it will help you navigate fast-moving, seasonal operations.
- Solid understanding of performance management, KPIs, and continuous improvement methodologies (LEAN, Kaizen).
- Excellent communication skills in English (French is a plus).
- Proficiency with WMS/ERP systems and data analysis tools (e.g. Excel, Power BI).
- The ability to travel occasionally to France for training and collaboration with the European DC team.
PERKS & BENEFITS
- Unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning
- A monthly Learning Hour for training, discovery and learning
- Unlock your potential: access to in-house training courses (feedback, leadership, Insights...)
- DEI initiatives to exchange and strengthen our involvement around these themes
ABOUT THE CULTURE
At Columbia Sportswear, we value an inclusive and open culture that emphasizes the absence of barriers between team members. We are committed to fostering a sense of belonging by encouraging personal connections at all levels, which creates a cohesive and supportive work environment.
Team members serve as ambassadors for our brand, finding motivation in being part of an organization dedicated to activities they are passionate about. This dedication reflects our commitment to building a team that takes pride in our products and values.
We offer the opportunity to work for a US-based company within a multicultural environment, where your job has an impact across different countries.
Our 'Always Be Learning' culture of continuous learning enables our employees to identify and develop skills that will enable them to continue to grow within the company.
'Unlock Your Potential' is the spirit that characterizes our vision of employees' development: to offer them opportunities to grow, in their job, in their team or even to change jobs completely. We grow our people to grow our business.
This job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but constitutes a general definition of the position's scope and function in the company.
3PL Operations Manager – UK Distribution Centre (Tamworth, Birmingham Area) employer: Columbia Sportswear Company
Columbia Sportswear is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises personal connections and team cohesion. With a commitment to continuous learning and employee development, our new Distribution Centre in Tamworth provides unique opportunities for growth and impact within a dynamic logistics environment, all while being part of a brand that shares your passion for the outdoors.
Contact Details:
Columbia Sportswear Company Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 3PL Operations Manager – UK Distribution Centre (Tamworth, Birmingham Area)
✨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 Columbia Sportswear Company 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 Columbia Sportswear Company!
✨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 Columbia Sportswear Company 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 3PL Operations Manager – UK Distribution Centre (Tamworth, Birmingham Area)
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 Columbia Sportswear Company:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Columbia Sportswear Company. 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 Columbia Sportswear Company
✨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 Columbia Sportswear Company.
✨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 Columbia Sportswear Company 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 Columbia Sportswear Company. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
