At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and energise warehouse operations while driving digital transformation.
- Company: Join a family-run business known for quality and creativity in leather supply.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days annual leave, and a company pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for continuous learning and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by modernising processes and inspiring a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: Experience in warehouse operations and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 46000 £ per year.
J Wood Leather are a family-run business based in West Yorkshire, specialising in the supply of high-quality hides and leathers to customers across the UK and beyond. With a reputation built on quality, service, and adaptability, we combine the reliability of a trusted wholesaler with the energy and creativity of a close knit team. From supporting independent makers to partnering with global manufacturers, we don’t just supply materials, we help shape ideas, build connections, and create opportunities. Joining us means being part of a collaborative team that’s passionate about what we do and excited about where we’re going.
This role is to lead and energise J Wood Leather’s warehouse operations while driving the transition from traditional, manual processes to modern, digital systems. This is a dynamic, forward-thinking role for someone eager to make a real impact through combining day to day operational leadership with the creativity and ambition to design and implement fresh, digital solutions. The postholder will be both a hands-on manager and a change agent, embedding a culture of innovation, agility, and continuous improvement.
Benefits
- Salary £40,000 per annum
- Hours of Work – 39 hours per week: Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 5:00pm, Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm, Saturday/Sunday as required depending on the needs of the business.
- Annual Leave: 25 days annual leave entitlement, plus one day’s paid leave for your birthday.
- Free on-site parking
- Company Pension Scheme
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership: Oversee daily warehouse functions including goods-in, stock control, picking, packing, dispatch, and returns.
- Inventory Management: Keep stock systems accurate and up to date, ensuring traceability and reducing discrepancies.
- Supplier & Partner Coordination: Manage supplier deliveries, resolve stock issues, and liaise with transport/courier partners to ensure timely distribution.
- Hands-On Flexibility: Lead by example, stepping into warehouse tasks when needed in a small team environment.
- Team Development: Inspire, coach, and mentor the warehouse team to embrace digital ways of working and maintain a positive, can-do culture.
- Digital Transformation: Spearhead the shift from manual to digital operations, introducing innovative technologies such as WMS, scanning tools, and data dashboards.
- Innovation & Process Design: Bring fresh ideas to streamline workflows, improve accuracy, and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Performance & Reporting: Create modern KPIs and digital reporting methods that deliver clear, data-driven insights.
- Equipment & Facilities Oversight: Organise servicing, maintenance, and compliance checks for warehouse equipment and facilities.
- Health & Safety: Ensure compliance with statutory and company safety standards, conducting regular risk assessments and embedding best practice.
- Collaboration: Work closely with sales, purchasing, and customer service to align warehouse operations with broader business goals.
Person Specification
Essential
- Strong understanding of warehouse operations, logistics, and inventory management.
- Proven experience of managing, coaching, or supervising a small team.
- Strong knowledge of Health & Safety in a warehouse environment (ideally with formal training or certification).
- Proficient in IT. Tech-savvy, with enthusiasm for implementing digital systems (WMS, ERP, dashboards).
- Willingness to balance leadership with hands-on tasks when required.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organisational, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
- Demonstrated ability to lead change and drive continuous improvement.
Desirable
- Valid Forklift Truck (FLT) licence with practical experience.
- Experience implementing warehouse management or ERP systems.
- Background in e-commerce fulfilment or wholesale distribution.
- Knowledge of lean or continuous improvement methodologies.
- First Aid or H&S certification.
- Commercial awareness with an understanding of customer service in a product-led environment.
Personal Attributes
- Dynamic and Forward-Thinking: Brings energy, fresh ideas, and enthusiasm for modernising processes.
- Resilient and Adaptable: Thrives in a fast-paced, evolving small-business environment where priorities shift.
- Hands-On Leadership: Leads by example and is prepared to step in at all levels of warehouse activity.
- Proactive and Solutions-Oriented: Anticipates challenges and implements improvements before problems escalate.
- Collaborative: Works effectively with colleagues across all departments to deliver shared goals.
- Customer-Focused: Understands the impact of warehouse operations on overall customer satisfaction.
- Inspirational: Able to motivate and build confidence in others, fostering a positive, can-do culture.
- Continuous Learner: Curious, open to feedback, and always looking to develop both self and team.
Warehouse & Systems Lead employer: Heybridge Associates
Contact Detail:
Heybridge Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Warehouse & Systems Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend local events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet hiring managers or team members, be ready to discuss your experience and how it aligns with their needs. Bring examples of your past successes, especially those that highlight your leadership and digital transformation abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that excites you, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. J Wood Leather is all about collaboration and innovation, so think about how you can demonstrate your fit with their dynamic team during your chat!
We think you need these skills to ace Warehouse & Systems Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how excited you are about leading warehouse operations and driving digital transformation at J Wood Leather.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in warehouse operations and team management. We love seeing how your skills align with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure to articulate your thoughts well without unnecessary fluff. This will help us understand your fit for the role quickly.
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 at J Wood Leather!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heybridge Associates
✨Know Your Warehouse Operations
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of warehouse operations, logistics, and inventory management. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in these areas, as this role is all about operational leadership.
✨Showcase Your Digital Savvy
Since the role involves transitioning to digital systems, be prepared to talk about any experience you have with WMS, ERP systems, or other tech tools. Highlight your enthusiasm for implementing innovative solutions and how you've successfully driven change in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Hands-On Leadership
This position requires a hands-on approach, so think of instances where you've led by example. Share stories that illustrate your ability to step into tasks when needed and how you inspire your team to embrace a positive, can-do culture.
✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions
Collaboration is key in this role, so expect questions about how you've worked with different departments in the past. Be ready to discuss how you align warehouse operations with broader business goals and how you handle communication with suppliers and partners.