At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise operations in a growing logistics business, ensuring service delivery and cost control.
- Company: Dynamic logistics company focused on growth and operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, car allowance, and pension.
- Other info: Opportunity for international travel and career advancement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of logistics while driving efficiency and performance.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in road freight forwarding and strong commercial awareness.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 € per year.
This is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the operational backbone of a growing logistics business.
Our client is a growing logistics business.
The Operations Director is responsible for leading and optimising all operational activity across the road freight forwarding business. Based in Kent, this role ensures that service delivery, cost control, compliance and operational performance consistently support our clients' commercial objectives and long-term growth. Reporting into the Managing Director, key responsibilities will include:
- Develop and execute the company's operational strategy in line with overall business objectives.
- Ensure operational capability, structure, and capacity align with commercial growth plans.
- Lead, mentor and develop the operations management team to achieve consistent performance.
- Own end-to-end service delivery across all road freight forwarding operations.
- Oversee capacity planning, carrier performance and network utilisation.
- Control operational costs while maintaining service quality and reliability.
- Ensure operational decisions protect agreed pricing and margin targets.
- Drive continuous efficiency improvements across people, process, and network.
- Ensure full compliance with transport legislation, customs procedures, and company policies.
- Lead health & safety and quality standards across all operational activities.
- Support key customer relationships from an operational performance perspective and act as a senior operational escalation point for strategic customers.
- Build and manage relationships with hauliers, subcontractors and partners and oversee supplier performance, compliance and SLAs.
- Contribute to strategic planning, investment decisions and business development initiatives.
To be considered for the Operations Director role you will live within a commuting distance of our client's operation in Kent and be able to demonstrate the following experience:
- Proven senior operational leadership experience within road freight forwarding.
- Strong understanding of UK and European road freight operations.
- Demonstrated experience managing complex, time-critical transport networks.
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance service, cost and margin.
- Experience operating within a fast-growing or change-led logistics environment.
- Strong people leader who builds accountability and high performance.
- Delivery-focused with a pragmatic and decisive leadership style.
- Process-driven with a continuous improvement mindset.
The successful Operations Director will be rewarded with the following package:
- Competitive salary ranging from £90,000 to £110,000 per annum.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including a car or allowance, performance related bonus and pension.
- International travel required.
Operations Director in Kent employer: Michael Page
Join a dynamic logistics business in Kent as an Operations Director, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping operational excellence and driving growth. Our company fosters a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee development, offering mentorship and opportunities for advancement within a fast-paced environment. With a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including international travel, we are committed to rewarding your contributions while ensuring a fulfilling career path.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the logistics industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on your dream Operations Director role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their challenges and think about how you can contribute to their growth. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their needs – they’ll love that!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams and improved operational performance in past roles. Use metrics to back up your achievements – numbers speak volumes!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Operations Director role. Highlight your experience in road freight forwarding and operational leadership, showing how you've driven efficiency and performance in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific achievements that align with our client's needs, like managing complex transport networks or improving service delivery.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We want to know about your people management skills! Share examples of how you've led teams to success, mentored others, and built high-performance cultures in fast-paced environments.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the logistics industry, especially road freight forwarding. Brush up on key operational strategies and be ready to discuss how you've successfully led teams in similar environments.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in mentoring and developing teams. Be ready to talk about how you've built accountability and high performance in your previous roles, as this is crucial for the Operations Director position.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Understand the balance between service delivery, cost control, and margin targets. Be prepared to discuss how you've managed operational costs while maintaining quality and reliability in past roles.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in complex, time-critical situations. Think of specific examples where you've driven continuous improvements or handled operational challenges effectively.
