Warehouse Operations Manager

Warehouse Operations Manager

Southampton Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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National Oceanography Centre

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead warehouse operations and manage a dynamic team to support scientific research.
  • Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in ocean research.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, flexible benefits, and a supportive work environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on world-class ocean research while developing your career.
  • Qualifications: Experience in warehouse management and strong leadership skills required.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Overview

Join to apply for the Warehouse Operations Manager role at National Oceanography Centre.

The Warehouse Operations Manager is a key member of NOC’s Supply Chain team and plays a critical role enabling the organisation’s scientific research.

About the role

You will lead the day-to-day operation of NOC’s warehouse and yard facilities and associated team and equipment. You will ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant receipt, storage, and dispatch of scientific equipment, marine assets, and operational supplies. This role is ideal for a proactive, safety-conscious, and forward-thinking professional who thrives in a dynamic environment. You will manage a team of warehouse staff and coordinate with scientific, engineering, and operational stakeholders to deliver an exceptional standard of service that supports the NOC’s world-class research programmes. You will be responsible for maintaining robust stock management systems, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and safety standards, and continuously improving processes to enhance efficiency, traceability, and sustainability across the supply chain.

Key responsibilities

  • Lead, supervise, and develop the warehouse team to deliver safe, efficient, and customer-focused services.
  • Manage goods-in and goods-out processes, ensuring accuracy of inventory records and appropriate storage and movement within the warehouse & yard area.
  • Oversee the receipt, inspection, storage, and dispatch of equipment, tools, and consumables, including scientific and marine engineering assets.
  • Maintain full compliance with health, safety, environmental, and security standards.
  • Ensure effective utilisation of warehouse and yard space, equipment, and systems to support operational efficiency.
  • Implement and maintain inventory management systems and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Ensure appropriate risk assessments and safe systems of work are in place for all operations.
  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and vessel operations teams to plan and coordinate picking and packing of equipment ready for scientific cruises.
  • Identify and deliver process improvements, automation opportunities, and sustainable practices in warehouse operations.
  • Support audits, reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives to uphold high standards of governance and performance.

About you

Essential attributes:

  • Proven experience managing warehouse, ideally in a research, engineering, or marine environment.
  • Strong leadership and team management skills with a collaborative and adaptable approach.
  • Excellent understanding of stock control systems, inventory accuracy, and warehouse management software.
  • Knowledge of relevant HSE legislation, manual handling, and COSHH principles.
  • Understanding of international shipping, customs processes, and export compliance desirable.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and organisational skills.

Why NOC?

At NOC, you’ll join a passionate and multidisciplinary team dedicated to supporting cutting-edge science and engineering. We offer a supportive and inclusive environment, opportunities for professional development, and a chance to play a direct role in enabling world-leading ocean research that benefits our planet.

Benefits

  • 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
  • Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues
  • Access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
  • A Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
  • A great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations
  • We are proud to be a Living Wage Employer

Location

This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points.

We may be able to offer financial support for applicants who will need to relocate for this position.

Submitting an application

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07355 676794.

Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.

Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.

There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 29/10/2025

This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.

Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.

Job details

  • Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
  • Employment type: Full-time
  • Job function: Research
  • Industries: Research Services

We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.

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Warehouse Operations Manager employer: National Oceanography Centre

At the National Oceanography Centre, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. As a Warehouse Operations Manager in Southampton, you will not only lead a dedicated team but also contribute to groundbreaking ocean research while enjoying generous benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, professional development opportunities, and a supportive environment that values diversity and employee well-being.
National Oceanography Centre

Contact Detail:

National Oceanography Centre Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Warehouse Operations Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Warehouse Operations Manager role.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching NOC and understanding their mission. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in managing warehouse operations and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in dynamic environments. Highlight any process improvements or efficiencies you've implemented that could benefit NOC.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the NOC team and contributing to their world-class research programmes.

We think you need these skills to ace Warehouse Operations Manager

Warehouse Management
Team Leadership
Inventory Management Systems
Stock Control Systems
Health and Safety Compliance
Problem-Solving Skills
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Understanding of HSE Legislation
Manual Handling Knowledge
COSHH Principles
International Shipping Knowledge
Customs Processes Understanding
Process Improvement
Operational Efficiency

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in warehouse management, especially in research or marine environments. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your leadership and stock control expertise!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. We love seeing enthusiasm and a personal touch, so let your personality come through.

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, highlight specific examples where you've improved processes or tackled challenges in warehouse operations. We’re looking for proactive individuals who can think on their feet, so share those success stories with us!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out!

How to prepare for a job interview at National Oceanography Centre

✨Know Your Warehouse Operations

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of warehouse management systems and stock control processes. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed inventory in the past, especially in a research or engineering context.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience. Think about times when you’ve led a team through challenges or improved processes. This role requires strong team management, so demonstrating your collaborative approach will be key.

✨Understand Health and Safety Standards

Familiarise yourself with relevant health, safety, and environmental legislation. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve ensured compliance in previous roles, as this is crucial for maintaining a safe working environment.

✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving Scenarios

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of specific challenges you've faced in warehouse operations and how you overcame them. This will show your ability to think on your feet and improve operational efficiency.

Warehouse Operations Manager
National Oceanography Centre
Location: Southampton
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