At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams while driving operational excellence across multiple depots.
- Company: Join DPD, a top player in sustainable parcel delivery in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus scheme, company car, and great perks like discounts and savings.
- Other info: Flexible working with travel across depots and a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment with opportunities for growth.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in managing teams under pressure.
The predicted salary is between 59500 - 59500 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent - 37.5 hours
Salary: Circa £59,500 plus bonus and car allowance (or company car)
Location: 2 Imperial Way, Reading, RG2 0SL - covering North/West London area
Working hours: Monday to Friday (07:00AM - 15:30PM)
Company Overview
DPD is a member of DPDgroup, one of Europe's leading parcel delivery networks. We aim to be the most sustainable delivery company in the UK, with a turnover over £2 billion, delivering the best service, using the best technology, and recruiting and retaining the best people.
Role Overview
Our Network Change Management department is recruiting for a National Operations Manager. The role supports multiple depots through short‑term and medium‑term depot management, operational project support, and drives change management across the network.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive Business KPIs, including Service, Operational Compliance and Cost
- Support continuous improvement through detailed review of operational platforms to drive operational excellence
- Specialist understanding of automated sortation equipment, including contingency planning
- Facilitate the operational requirements of new depot openings, integrations and closures
- Manage operational elements of IT Projects, including User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
- Provide training, mentoring and development of Designates, Graduates and Direct Reports
- Participate in Depot Operational Support, including physical and remote intervention when unforeseen challenges arise, and identify continuous improvement opportunities
Qualifications
- Strong people management experience and ability to lead teams under pressure
- Demonstrable experience of mentoring, inspiring and leading teams
- Collaborative, influential at various levels with internal and external stakeholders
- Self‑motivated, using initiative to identify and drive change
- Analytical skills to interpret data
- Awareness of Lean processes and change management within fast‑paced distribution settings
- Knowledge of continuous improvement strategies
- Commercial and financial awareness
- Demonstrate DPD DNA: Accountability, Flexibility, Caring, Honesty, Passion and Respect
Additional Information
Typical working days: Monday to Friday, with occasional night and weekend shifts as required. The role requires remote working and travel across depots nationwide. A full driving licence and willingness to travel overnight is required.
Remuneration & Benefits
Basic salary, company car or cash alternative, attractive bonus scheme based on individual and company targets. Additional benefits include Cycle2Work Scheme, Dining Cards, Holiday trading, discounts and savings on thousands of retailers.
EEO Statement
DPD is a Valuable 500 company and a Disability Confident Employer.
National Operations Manager in Reading employer: DPD UK
DPD is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises sustainability and innovation in the parcel delivery sector. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to mentoring and training opportunities, alongside competitive benefits such as a company car or cash allowance, an attractive bonus scheme, and various discounts. Located in Reading, you will be part of a collaborative culture that values accountability, flexibility, and respect, making it a rewarding place to grow your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land National Operations Manager in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current DPD employees on LinkedIn. You never know who might give you the inside scoop on job openings or even refer you directly!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching DPD's values and recent projects. Show us that you understand our commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with our goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to build confidence. Focus on articulating your leadership style and how you've driven change in previous roles—this is key for a National Operations Manager!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining the DPD team. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace National Operations Manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the National Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in people management, operational compliance, and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with our goals!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you embody the DPD DNA values. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we love that!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive business KPIs and lead teams. Numbers speak volumes, so if you’ve improved efficiency or reduced costs, let us know!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at DPD UK
✨Know Your Numbers
As a National Operations Manager, you'll need to drive business KPIs. Brush up on relevant metrics and be ready to discuss how you've improved performance in previous roles. Use specific examples to showcase your analytical skills and understanding of operational compliance.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong people management experience. Prepare to share stories about how you've mentored and inspired teams under pressure. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you’ve influenced stakeholders at various levels.
✨Understand Change Management
Familiarise yourself with Lean processes and continuous improvement strategies. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented change in fast-paced environments, especially regarding new depot openings or IT projects. This will demonstrate your ability to drive operational excellence.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially in unforeseen challenges. Think of examples where you've had to intervene physically or remotely to support operations. This will show your proactive nature and readiness to tackle issues head-on.
