At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a large-scale distribution operation, ensuring efficiency and safety in logistics.
- Company: Join a leading retail distribution business with a focus on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £75,000 and an excellent benefits package.
- Other info: Opportunity for long-term career growth and influence within the organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving performance and developing teams in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in logistics leadership and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 € per year.
Are you an experienced logistics leader who thrives in fast-paced operational environments? Do you know how to balance service, safety, people and performance while keeping complex operations running smoothly? We’re partnering with a leading retail distribution business to recruit a Distribution Manager for their Plymouth depot — a key leadership role responsible for driving operational excellence across warehouse and transport functions. This is an opportunity to lead a large-scale, high-volume operation where your impact will be felt across service delivery, colleague engagement and continuous improvement initiatives.
The Opportunity
As Distribution Manager, you’ll take ownership of the day-to-day operational performance of the depot, ensuring products reach stores safely, efficiently and on time, every time. You’ll lead senior operational teams across warehouse and transport, managing performance, resources, cost control and operational risk, while creating a positive and high-performing culture across the site. This role requires a confident and visible leader who can drive operational standards, lead through change and work collaboratively with union representatives and wider network stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the end-to-end depot operation across warehouse and transport
- Ensure operational activities are delivered safely, compliantly and in line with service expectations
- Drive performance across productivity, service and cost KPIs
- Coach, mentor and develop operational leadership teams
- Build a positive culture focused on engagement, accountability and continuous improvement
- Manage operational risk, safety and compliance standards across the depot
- Work closely with union representatives on workforce planning, attendance, well being and operational change
- Identify operational inefficiencies and implement practical, sustainable improvements
- Collaborate across the wider logistics network to share best practice and support strategic initiatives
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience leading large-scale logistics or complex operational environments
- Strong operational leadership across warehouse, transport or distribution functions
- The ability to balance service delivery, cost control and people priorities
- Experience leading senior operational teams in fast-moving environments
- A practical, coaching-led leadership style with a focus on developing people
- Strong stakeholder and union engagement experience
- Confidence making decisions, managing risk and driving accountability
- A continuous improvement mindset with a track record of delivering operational change
What’s On Offer
- Salary up to £75,000
- Excellent benefits package
- The opportunity to lead a significant regional operation
- A business committed to colleague engagement, operational excellence and continuous improvement
- A role with genuine visibility, influence and long-term career potential
If you’re an operational leader who enjoys driving performance through people, process and strong leadership, we’d love to hear from you.
Distribution Manager in Exeter employer: Empresaria Group plc
Join a leading retail distribution business in Plymouth as a Distribution Manager, where you'll be at the forefront of operational excellence in a dynamic and supportive environment. With a strong commitment to colleague engagement and continuous improvement, this role offers excellent benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a significant impact on service delivery and team performance. Experience a culture that values accountability and collaboration, ensuring your leadership is both visible and influential.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Distribution Manager in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the logistics and distribution sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their operational challenges and think about how your experience can help them overcome these. Tailor your answers to show you’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've driven performance and engaged teams in previous roles. This is your chance to demonstrate that you can lead a large-scale operation effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Distribution Manager in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Distribution Manager role. Highlight your leadership in logistics, operational excellence, and any experience with union engagement to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for logistics and how you’ve driven performance in past roles. We want to see your personality and what makes you the perfect fit for our team.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you’ve improved operations, managed costs, or enhanced team performance. Numbers speak volumes!
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 this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Empresaria Group plc
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the logistics and distribution processes. Familiarise yourself with key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to the role, such as productivity and cost control. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach, especially in fast-paced environments. Share specific examples of how you've coached and developed teams in the past. Highlight your ability to create a positive culture and engage with colleagues, as this is crucial for the Distribution Manager role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage operational risks or implement improvements. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves collaboration with union representatives and other stakeholders, be ready to discuss your experience in stakeholder engagement. Prepare examples of how you've successfully navigated complex relationships and driven change while maintaining strong communication.