At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop high-volume Transport and Despatch operations in a fast-paced FMCG environment.
- Company: Join a dynamic FMCG manufacturing company in Stevenage with growth opportunities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Site-based role with excellent career progression in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Be a key player in driving improvements and shaping the logistics operation.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport management, strong leadership skills, and a National Transport Manager CPC.
We are recruiting an experienced Logistics Operations Manager to take responsibility for a high-volume Transport and Despatch operation within a fast-paced FMCG manufacturing environment in Stevenage. This is a senior site leadership position for an accomplished Transport and Logistics professional who knows what a high-performing operation looks like and has the leadership capability to develop people, challenge existing ways of working and drive sustainable improvements across safety, service, efficiency and cost. With further volume growth planned, this is an excellent opportunity to join the business at an important stage of development and play a key role in strengthening and developing the logistics operation.
The Role
As a key member of the site management team, you will lead the Transport and Despatch functions, taking responsibility for operational performance, legal compliance, safety, people development, customer service and logistics budgets. Key responsibilities will include:
- Leading and developing the site Transport and Despatch teams
- Acting as custodian of the Operator's Licence and ensuring ongoing legal compliance
- Driving a strong safety-first culture across the logistics operation
- Taking ownership of logistics KPIs covering safety, service, efficiency and cost
- Managing the site logistics budget and identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce cost
- Reviewing operational performance and implementing continuous improvement initiatives
- Developing the management team, setting clear expectations and addressing performance where required
- Ensuring transport and despatch operations consistently meet customer service and quality expectations
- Using operational, WMS, fleet and compliance data to improve productivity, resource planning, scheduling and decision-making
- Building strong relationships across Logistics, Manufacturing and other site functions
- Supporting the operation through planned volume growth and associated recruitment
- Deputising for the Regional Logistics Manager when required
About You
We are looking for an established Transport and Logistics leader with significant experience operating in a demanding, high-volume environment. You must have:
- National Transport Manager CPC
- Previous experience of being named/placed on a business Operator's Licence
- Strong Transport and Logistics management experience
- Experience within a 24/7 FMCG or similarly fast-paced, time-critical operation
- Strong knowledge of transport legislation and legal compliance
- Proven experience leading and developing operational managers and teams
- Experience managing logistics budgets, costs and operational KPIs
- A track record of improving performance and successfully leading change
- Strong commercial awareness and customer focus
- Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills
- Full UK driving licence
This role would particularly suit an experienced Logistics Operations Manager, Senior Transport Manager, Transport Operations Manager, Distribution Manager or Depot Manager looking for a broader senior leadership opportunity with responsibility for both Transport and Despatch. This is a site-based opportunity in Stevenage and applicants must be able to commute reliably to the site. In the first instance forward your CV across for consideration.
Logistics Operations Manager in Stevenage employer: Fresh People
Join a dynamic and supportive team at our Stevenage location, where we prioritise employee growth and development in a fast-paced FMCG environment. As a Logistics Front Line Manager, you will benefit from a culture that values compliance, safety, and operational excellence, while enjoying a competitive salary and the potential for a permanent position. We are committed to fostering a collaborative work atmosphere that encourages innovation and continuous improvement, making it an excellent place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in logistics.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Logistics Operations Manager in Stevenage
✨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 Fresh People 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 Fresh People!
✨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 Fresh People 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 Logistics Operations Manager in Stevenage
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 Fresh People:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Fresh People. 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 Fresh People
✨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 Fresh People.
✨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 Fresh People 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 Fresh People. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
