At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead warehouse operations and optimise processes using SAP EWM for real-world applications.
- Company: Join Lonza, a global leader in life sciences with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, global benefits, and a dynamic career path.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the life sciences sector while enhancing your skills.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in warehouse operations with hands-on experience in SAP EWM.
Location – Manchester
Hybrid Working Policy – 2 Days on Site, 3 Days WFH
We are looking for a Warehouse Operations & Process Lead to join our organization who will play a critical role in the implementation and optimization of the S4/HANA platform, focusing on Warehousing related processes. This role is focused on bringing real-world warehouse experience into a SAP EWM implementation. We are not looking for a career SAP consultant — we are looking for someone who has worked within warehouse operations, with experience of projects and change delivery and can translate that into system design.
This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, develop, and implement robust process solutions for our new SAP EWM enabled network.
What you will get:
- An agile career and dynamic working culture
- An inclusive and ethical workplace
- Hybrid working
- Access to global benefits via https://www.lonza.com/careers/benefits
What you will do:
- Design, Test and implement EWM enabled end-to-end warehouse operations, covering inbound, internal movements, production supply, and outbound flows
- Ensure warehouse processes are practical, efficient, and aligned to real-world constraints such as staffing levels, site layout, shift patterns, and throughput demands
- Act as the bridge between warehouse operations and SAP, ensuring system design reflects how the warehouse actually operates day-to-day
- Work closely with site teams and leadership to roll out SAP EWM, whilst identifying process improvements and drive operational efficiency
- Support the implementation of SAP EWM by bringing hands-on operational expertise into process design, testing, and deployment
- Facilitate regular engagement with site stakeholders, addressing operational challenges and ensuring readiness for go-live
- Contribute to cutover planning and execution, ensuring warehouse teams are prepared and processes run smoothly during transition
- Ensure seamless interaction between warehouse operations and other functions such as production, procurement, and distribution
What we are looking for:
- Proven hands-on experience in warehouse or manufacturing operations (5+ years).
- Strong understanding of day-to-day warehouse processes, including picking, packing, inbound, outbound, and inventory management
- Experience working within real operational environments — understanding challenges such as labour constraints, layout limitations, and volume pressures
- Exposure to SAP WM or EWM as a user, super-user, or site SME (not just from a consulting perspective)
- Experience supporting or participating in system implementations, process changes, or go-live activities within a warehouse environment
- Familiarity with working in a GMP or regulated environment (e.g. pharma, life sciences, FMCG)
- Ability to translate operational needs into clear process requirements, ensuring solutions are practical and usable
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage both warehouse teams and wider project stakeholders
- Willingness to travel for project work (approximately 3–5 times per year, 1–3 weeks per trip)
About Lonza
At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of.
Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board.
Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.
Warehouse Operations & Process Lead in Manchester employer: Lonza
At Lonza, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. With a hybrid working policy that promotes work-life balance and access to global benefits, employees are empowered to grow their careers while contributing to meaningful projects in the life sciences sector. Our commitment to diversity and employee development ensures that every team member's voice is heard and valued, making Lonza a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Warehouse Operations & Process Lead in Manchester
✨Get to Know Local Distribution Centres
Start hanging around local distribution centres and warehouses, like the ones that might belong to Lonza. Many times, they have sign-up sheets for job openings or even informal meet-ups that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Talk to Recruiters and Employment Agencies
There are loads of recruitment agencies that specifically focus on warehouse and logistics roles. Get in touch with them and let them know you’re looking for full-time work. They often have inside info on openings before they're advertised!
✨Brush Up on Your Skills
Think about the specific skills that are hot in the warehouse sector right now, like inventory management software or health and safety protocols. We can help you find resources to polish up your abilities, which can make you stand out when you're looking at those full-time gigs.
✨Apply Directly Through Us!
Don't forget to keep an eye on our website for any full-time listings at Lonza. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in logistics and warehousing!
We think you need these skills to ace Warehouse Operations & Process Lead in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience with Inventory Management:When you're whipping up your CV, make sure to spotlight any experience you've got in inventory management or warehousing. We love to see proficiency in stock control systems or previous roles where you've managed inventory levels. Show us how you can keep things organised and running smoothly!
Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail:In the warehouse and logistics field, attention to detail is key. Use your cover letter to share specific examples of how you've caught mistakes or streamlined processes in the past. Let us know how your precision can contribute to our team at Lonza.
Get Familiar with Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to warehousing or logistics—like health and safety or forklift operation—make sure they shine on your CV! We appreciate all the qualifications that show you're serious about the role and keeping a safe, efficient workspace.
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills:Logistics can be unpredictable, so if you've tackled any significant challenges in previous positions, tell us all about it! Use your cover letter to highlight how you've adapted to situations, such as changes in supply or unexpected delays. We want to see your resourcefulness in action for this full-time role at Lonza.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lonza
✨Know Your Warehouse Systems
Familiarise yourself with popular warehouse management systems like SAP or Oracle. If you have experience using these or similar tools, be prepared to discuss how you utilised them to improve efficiency or accuracy in inventory management.
✨Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills
In the logistics arena, unexpected challenges pop up all the time. Be ready to share some examples of when you faced a logistical hiccup and how you tackled it. This shows you can think on your feet and keep things running smoothly.
✨Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Since it’s a full-time position, expect questions about your ability to work in a team in a busy warehousing environment. Share experiences where you collaborated with others, maybe to meet tight deadlines or manage large shipments, ensuring you showcase your ability to communicate effectively.
✨Safety First! Talk About Protocols
Logistics roles require a real understanding of safety protocols. Brush up on basic safety guidelines and be ready to discuss how you’ve implemented or adhered to these in past roles. This shows that you’re serious about your role in maintaining a safe working environment.
