At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead maintenance teams and ensure high standards of safety and compliance.
- Company: Join the UK's largest employee-owned business, John Lewis Partnership.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, evening and night premiums, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a collaborative and inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment where your voice matters.
- Qualifications: Experience in retail maintenance and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 39200 - 60000 £ per year.
ABOUT THE ROLE
At the John Lewis Partnership, you don't just join a team - you become a co-owner. As an employee-owned business, our success is built on the belief that when our people thrive, our business thrives. We are currently setting up a new RDC site in Avonmouth and are looking for an experienced maintenance leader who is ready to take ownership, drive high standards, and play a pivotal role in our transition to full operational readiness by Q4 2026. If you are passionate about leading teams, championing safety, and shaping the future of a business where your voice truly matters.
In addition to your contractual pay, any time worked between 18:00 - 22:00 will attract an Evening Premium at a rate of £3.75 per hour, and any time worked between 22:00 - 06:00 will attract a Night Premium at a rate of £4.75 per hour. This will also apply to existing Partners who have enrolled onto Enhanced Hours Premium arrangements.
Contract type - This is a permanent position
Location - Avonmouth Regional Distribution Site
Hours/Shift Pattern - 6am - 2pm, 2pm - 10pm two week rota Monday to Friday. There will be a regular call out rota normally a minimum of every other week required due to the site being operational 24/7/365 with a requirement to be available on the phone and able to get to site within an hour to manage the critical situation.
Key responsibilities
- Supporting FMDM in the delivery of the Maintenance business plan for their area of responsibility.
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, Specialist Contractors and third-party service providers to ensure efficient and cost-effective delivery of world-class maintenance.
- Creating and maintaining a culture of high performance across all areas of responsibility, setting the highest standards of ownership, engagement, Health & Safety and customer service.
- Ensuring all compliance, safety and assurance requirements are delivered, which keep the business legal & compliant to allow trading to continue without risk or impact. Conduct compliance audits on the internal Maintenance team and contractor works.
- Leading, coaching and developing the team of engineering technicians and tradesmen to maintain the building(s) to a high standard, ensuring all legislative requirements and health and safety governance are met.
- Supporting FMDM with budgetary control for revenue & planning for capital spend across areas of responsibility.
- Overseeing the timely delivery of all compliance, safety, and Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) activities across the campus, ensuring accurate documentation of all remedial actions.
- Actively involved in ensuring all maintenance projects are delivered safely.
- Supporting the business in delivering the Partnerships carbon reduction programme.
- Taking an active role in understanding and promoting democracy within the Partnership.
Essential skills/experience you'll need
- Extensive experience in retail or distribution maintenance, with proven success leading multi-skilled teams and driving cost efficiencies.
- Strong leadership skills, with a focus on process development, team motivation, and building effective internal/external relationships.
- Comprehensive knowledge of site safety (H&S legislation, Legionella, LOLER, PUWER, Fire Safety) with expertise in managing audits and statutory records.
- Technical expertise in CDM application, Building Management Systems, and CAFM platforms (specifically Opuz for PPM/reactive works).
- Time-served Electrician (or equivalent HVAC qualification) with a NEBOSH certification or equivalent in general site safety.
- Analytical and detail-oriented, with strong reporting skills and experience in procurement and supplier management.
Closing Date: August 23, 2026
Pay: £39,200.00 - £60,000.00 Annual
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours of Work: 42
Job Level: Partnership Level 8
Where You'll Be Working: Avonmouth Regional Distribution Centre (Waitrose & Partners), Central Avenue, Bristol, BS10 7ES
ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP
We're the largest employee owned business in the UK and home of our cherished brands, John Lewis and Waitrose. We're not just employees, we're Partners, driven by our purpose to build a happier world. As we look to our future, there's never been a more exciting time to join us.
We're ruthlessly focused on being brilliant at retail. We continue to innovate, adapt and diversify. Never Knowingly Undersold on price, quality and service in John Lewis and passionately serving food-lovers in Waitrose.
As Partners we all share the responsibility of ownership and in its rewards. We use our voices to contribute to our success, working together through the good and challenging times, holding true to our behaviours and treating everyone with kindness and respect.
We all own making the Partnership somewhere we belong. Embracing our differences and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
Section Manager employer: JLP.
At John Lewis Partnership in Bracknell, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our commitment to sustainability and customer-centric design not only enhances the shopping experience but also provides our employees with meaningful opportunities for growth and development within a supportive team environment. With a hybrid working setup, we offer flexibility that empowers our staff to thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Section Manager
✨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 JLP. 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 JLP.!
✨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 JLP. 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 Section Manager
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 JLP.:This is your chance to really connect with the team at JLP.. 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 JLP.
✨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 JLP..
✨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 JLP. 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 JLP.. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
