Contract Manager in Stanford-Le-Hope

Location: London Gateway

About Us: Gregory Distribution Ltd is dedicated to delivering excellence in logistics and transport services. We maintain high standards of compliance and operational efficiency, fostering a strong culture of teamwork and continuous improvement. Join us to grow your career in a supportive and expanding business environment.

Job Description: We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced logistics professional to lead the chilled and ambient distribution operations across our Regional Distribution Centres in London Gateway and Dartford. This pivotal role is responsible for ensuring the efficient, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods to UK-based Distribution Centres and network partners. Reporting directly to the General Manager, the successful candidate will play a key role in driving operational excellence, fostering strong stakeholder relationships, and leading a high-performing team within a fast-paced, temperature-controlled logistics environment.

• Key Responsibilities:
• Contract Management

• Lead operations at our Regional Distribution Centres in London Gateway and Dartford, reporting directly to the General Manager.
• Oversee the distribution of chilled and ambient goods to UK-based Distribution Centres and network partners via both in-house fleet and third-party logistics providers.
• Ensure full compliance with legal, safety, and contractual obligations, consistently meeting or exceeding KPIs.
• Deliver cost-effective, high-quality service within budget parameters.
• Maintain strong client relationships through regular performance reviews and proactive communication.
• Collaborate closely with third-party warehouse partners to ensure seamless supply chain operations.

• Manage the operational logistics of chilled and ambient deliveries across the UK, ensuring timely and accurate service to DCs and partner networks.
• Proactively identify and resolve delivery issues or delays, maintaining excellent communication with all stakeholders.
• Work closely with network partners to understand specific delivery requirements and optimise operations accordingly.

• Support the development and performance of your direct reports and the wider team.
• Foster a positive, collaborative working environment across all levels of the operation.
• Handle conflicts and employee concerns with professionalism and fairness.
• Provide guidance on labour relations, ensuring alignment with company policies and values.

• Analyse delivery performance data to identify inefficiencies and drive continuous improvement.
• Work cross-functionally with procurement, operations, and People & Culture teams to enhance service delivery.
• Champion health, safety, and regulatory compliance across all logistics activities.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in managing chilled and ambient logistics within a third-party logistics (3PL) environment.
• Strong understanding of multi-client distribution models, service level agreements (SLAs), and client-specific operational requirements.
• Strong negotiation, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams and departments.
• Knowledge of UK logistics regulations, retail delivery processes, and health and safety standards.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive performance improvements.

Desirable requirements:

• Relevant qualifications in supply chain management, logistics, or a related field.
• Experience in budget management and financial analysis.
• Familiarity with retail operations and customer service principles.
• Transport Manager CPC.

Why Join Gregory Distribution Ltd?

• Competitive Salary: £65,000 - £70,000 per annum, PLUS car allowance, depending on experience.
• Hours: 08:30hrs - 17:30hrs, Monday to Friday.
• Training: Monthly Courses for a variety of areas.
• Benefits: Additional holiday purchasing scheme*, Retail discounts with Hapi*, Retail Trust Wellbeing Support*, and more.
• Career Growth: Explore opportunities for professional development within our expanding business.
• Company Benefits: Excellent holiday allowance. Life assurance, pension, and sickness scheme*.
• Extras: Christmas Savings Club*, Black Circle Tyre Discount*, Free Uniform and paid Volunteer Day.
• Wellbeing Support: Benefit from the Retail Trust Wellbeing Support* program.
• Team Environment: Be part of a strong culture of teamwork and collaboration.

How to Apply

If you have the drive to be the best and want to be part of a flourishing and ambitious company, apply now! Please submit your application as soon as possible. Due to high volumes of applications, we reserve the right to close adverts before the closing date once we have received sufficient applications.

Eligibility: Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK with no restrictions. Proof of Right to Work will be required at the interview stage.

Contact Us: For any queries, please contact our Recruitment Team. Our team is available Monday to Friday, 08:30hrs - 17:00hrs.

Note to Recruitment Agencies: We prefer to recruit directly but have a Preferred Supplier List for when we need assistance. We'll be in touch if we need you. *Subject to terms and conditions.