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- Tasks: Lead and manage all operations, including warehousing, logistics, and customer service.
- Company: Join James Latham, a top UK timber distributor with a rich history since 1757.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible location options and extensive travel opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing company with a strong culture and ambitious future plans.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in multi-site distribution operations; timber experience is a plus.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to evolve a successful business rather than fix a broken one.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 100000 £ per year.
Group Operations Director – James Latham – a leading national, multi-site distribution business. Flexible with location – role naturally involves extensive travel James Latham is one of the UK and Ireland’s largest independent trade distributors of timber, panels and decorative surfaces. They supply products to a broad range of customers, from contractors and merchants, through to designers and makers. The business can trace its history back to 1757. They are stable, secure, and financially strong with long-serving staff. There is a well-invested national network of distribution facilities. Acquisitions have been successfully integrated. They have a great culture with quick decision-making and an entrepreneurial approach. The future looks very bright for this business! They have grown significantly over the last 25 years, with a turnover in excess of £350m, trading from 17 locations. They have further ambitious growth plans. At the same time, their distribution operations have benefitted from significant investment in both technology and equipment. As a result of growth, future development plans and succession planning, they are looking to recruit a high-calibre Group Operations Director. The Group Operations Director will be responsible for leading and managing all aspects of the company’s operations, including warehousing, distribution, logistics, internal supply chain, and customer service levels. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record with this level of responsibility, driving operational efficiencies, improving processes, managing all operational resources delivering exceptional service to customers. We believe this represents one of the most attractive and important career opportunities within the UK industrial distribution sector today. For more information please visit: https://www.lathamtimber.co.uk/ Potential candidates should have: A successful career history running and improving multi-site distribution operations across several industry sectors. Experience within timber and associated products is an advantage but far from a prerequisite Ability to quickly integrate into the culture High levels of credibility and gravitas Can operate at pace with a high level of personal energy, inspiring people to come on the journey The ability to take considered and rounded analytical views that result in clear and strong decision-making Will challenge the status quo in their drive for greater effectiveness. This a successful business, far from broken. It’s more a case of evolution than revolution The ability to move between strategic viewpoints and tactical action with ease Exceptional communication skills: the ability to relate to those in the distribution centres and be willing and able to roll sleeves up and spend time in that environment An empathetic coach who understands the needs of their team and strives to support them Excellent leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams. To apply send your CV to Neil Holloway, MD of our retained consultants Wilson Brook Consulting via neil@wilsonbrook.com Or call Neil on 07796 542641 for a confidential discussion
Group Operations Director employer: James Latham
Contact Detail:
James Latham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Operations Director
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the timber and distribution industry. Even if you don't have direct experience, understanding the market trends, key players, and challenges can help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to James Latham's growth.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in managing multi-site operations. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've improved efficiencies and processes in previous roles, as this will resonate well with the expectations for the Group Operations Director position.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your leadership style and ability to inspire teams. Prepare anecdotes that showcase your coaching skills and how you've successfully motivated high-performing teams in the past, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your approach to decision-making. The role requires someone who can balance strategic thinking with tactical execution, so think of examples where you've made impactful decisions that drove operational success.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Operations Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in multi-site distribution operations. Emphasize any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive operational efficiencies and improve processes.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your leadership skills and your understanding of the timber industry. Mention how your career history aligns with the responsibilities of the Group Operations Director role and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Showcase Communication Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with teams at various levels. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate others, as well as your experience in coaching and developing high-performing teams.
Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with James Latham's history, culture, and recent developments. Understanding their business model and growth plans will help you tailor your application and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Latham
✨Showcase Your Multi-Site Experience
Make sure to highlight your previous experience managing multi-site distribution operations. Discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Group Operations Director role.
✨Emphasize Cultural Fit
James Latham values a strong cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with their entrepreneurial approach and quick decision-making culture. Share examples of how you've integrated into new teams in the past.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Decision-Making
Prepare to discuss your analytical skills and how they have influenced your decision-making process. Provide examples of situations where your considered views led to successful outcomes, showcasing your ability to balance strategic thinking with tactical action.
✨Highlight Leadership and Team Development
As a potential leader, it's crucial to convey your leadership style and how you motivate high-performing teams. Share stories that illustrate your coaching abilities and how you've supported team members in achieving their goals.
