At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise warehouse and distribution operations for maximum efficiency and service.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on growth and innovation in logistics.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days leave, profit share, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a culture of continuous improvement and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Drive transformational change and make a real impact in supply chain management.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in warehouse or supply chain roles with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Department
Warehouse
Location
Chalton, Luton
Reports To
Managing Director
We are seeking a strategic leader to own the end-to-end performance of our warehouse and distribution function.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will drive operational excellence and transformational change, ensuring our supply chain supports business growth while delivering outstanding service, efficiency and cost performance.
- Core Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the warehouse and distribution strategy, aligning operational performance with business objectives for cost, service and scalability.
- Lead all warehouse and distribution activities, including inbound logistics, stock control, order fulfilment and outbound delivery.
- Own relationships with third-party logistics providers (3PLs), parcel carriers and pallet network partners, ensuring optimal service, cost control and contractual compliance.
- Drive cross-functional change initiatives, embedding new processes, technologies and ways of working across the business.
- Deliver operational performance against key KPIs including OTIF, inventory accuracy, cost-to-serve and customer service metrics.
- Operational Duties
- Hold full P&L accountability for warehouse and distribution operations, identifying opportunities to improve productivity and reduce costs.
- Lead, develop and inspire warehouse management teams and frontline colleagues through effective recruitment, coaching, performance management and succession planning.
- Ensure compliance with all health & safety, regulatory and quality standards while maintaining best-in‑class inventory accuracy.
- Manage carrier and 3PL performance through robust governance, KPI management, service reviews and commercial negotiations.
- Lead logistics procurement and tender activities to secure the most effective transport and fulfilment solutions.
- Transformation & Continuous Improvement
- Lead the implementation and ongoing optimisation of a new Warehouse Management System (WMS), including vendor management, process design, testing, training and go‑live delivery.
- Act as business owner for warehouse technology platforms, ensuring effective integration between WMS, ERP, automation solutions and logistics partners.
- Identify and deliver process improvement, automation and operational excellence initiatives to enhance efficiency, service levels and scalability.
- Foster a continuous improvement culture through Lean, Six Sigma and data‑driven decision‑making.
- Use operational and systems data to identify opportunities, resolve bottlenecks and strengthen supply chain resilience.
- Required Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in a senior warehouse, distribution or supply chain leadership role, with responsibility for operational performance, people leadership and budget management.
- Demonstrable success leading major business transformation initiatives, including Warehouse Management System (WMS) implementation, upgrade or migration projects.
- Significant experience managing outsourced logistics operations, including 3PLs, parcel carriers, pallet networks and transportation procurement.
- Strong understanding of warehouse and fulfilment best practices, including inventory management, picking and packing, slotting, cycle counting and logistics performance management.
- Experience integrating WMS, ERP and transport management systems to support efficient, scalable operations.
- Commercially astute, with strong financial management, P&L ownership and experience negotiating supplier and logistics contracts.
- Analytical and data‑driven, with expertise in KPI development, capacity planning and operational performance reporting.
- Proven change leadership capabilities, with the ability to engage stakeholders, drive adoption and deliver measurable business benefits.
- Proficient in WMS and ERP platforms (e. g. SAP, Iptor, Microsoft Dynamics) and advanced Excel; experience with warehouse automation technologies is advantageous.
- Remuneration
- Competitive salary
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Company profit share scheme
- Company pension scheme
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Warehouse & Distribution Operations in Luton employer: Deta Electrical
As a leading employer in the logistics sector, we offer an exciting opportunity for the Head of Warehouse & Distribution Operations to drive transformational change in our Chalton, Luton location. Our commitment to operational excellence is matched by a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth through continuous improvement initiatives and robust training programmes. With competitive salaries, a profit share scheme, and a focus on work-life balance, we ensure our team members thrive both professionally and personally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Warehouse & Distribution Operations in Luton
✨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 Deta Electrical 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 Deta Electrical!
✨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 Deta Electrical 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 Head of Warehouse & Distribution Operations in Luton
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 Deta Electrical:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Deta Electrical. 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 Deta Electrical
✨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 Deta Electrical.
✨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 Deta Electrical 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 Deta Electrical. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
