Operations Manager

Location: Rotherham

Reports To: Senior Operations Manager

Company Overview: Alliance Automotive Group is a leading distributor of automotive parts, specialising in efficient picking, packing, and distribution across the UK and Ireland. We operate with a commitment to maintaining high service standards while fostering operational excellence at all levels.

Role Overview: The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of warehouse operations, ensuring alignment with company objectives and delivering operational excellence. Reporting to the Senior Operations Manager, this role involves managing First Line Managers, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic and Operational Oversight: Oversee daily operations across all warehouse functions, including receiving, storage, picking, packing, and despatch. Develop and implement operational plans to meet company targets, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to maximise productivity. Ensure all operations comply with company policies, industry regulations, and customer requirements.
• Leadership and Team Management: Directly manage First Line Managers, providing mentorship and guidance to ensure team effectiveness. Conduct performance reviews and implement individual development plans to build high-performing teams. Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration across all operational levels.
• KPI Management and Reporting: Monitor and analyse operational KPIs, such as pick accuracy, on-time despatch, and inventory accuracy. Prepare detailed performance reports for Senior Operations Managers and recommend corrective actions where necessary. Drive initiatives to achieve or exceed operational KPIs, focusing on cost-efficiency and service excellence.
• Continuous Improvement and Innovation: Identify inefficiencies in workflows and lead the implementation of lean processes to reduce waste and improve performance. Work with cross-functional teams, including CI Analysts, to design and execute improvement projects. Ensure all standard operating procedures (SOPs) are up-to-date and reflective of best practices.
• Health, Safety, and Compliance: Enforce health and safety regulations across all operations, conducting regular audits and ensuring adherence to safe systems of work (SSOWs). Investigate and address safety incidents, implementing measures to prevent recurrence. Ensure full compliance with warehouse and distribution regulatory standards.
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Management: Act as the key liaison between Senior Operations Managers, First Line Managers, and other departments, ensuring smooth communication and operational alignment. Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams to minimise downtime and ensure equipment is fully operational. Engage with customers and suppliers to address operational issues and enhance service delivery.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education: Qualifications in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred but not essential. Certifications in Lean Six Sigma or similar methodologies are advantageous.
• Experience: Extensive experience in a warehouse or logistics environment, with at least three years in a management role. Proven track record in managing large teams and meeting demanding operational targets.
• Skills: Strong leadership and decision-making abilities. Advanced proficiency in Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Microsoft Office Suite. Analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on data-driven decision-making. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Thorough knowledge of health and safety regulations and compliance standards.