Operations Manager in Barking

• Location
• : Multi-site (regular travel between all company depots)
• About Online Lubricants

Online Lubricants is one of the South East's leading independent suppliers of fuels, lubricants and greases.

With over 30 years' experience, we pride ourselves on exceptional customer service, same-day deliveries and out-of-hours support.

Operating from four depots, we are an authorised distributor for Total Energies, Q8Oils, Fleetguard, and Petro-Canada Lubricants.

With decades of industry expertise, we continue to grow by investing in both our customers and our people.

The Role

We are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to lead our transport and warehouse operations across four depots.

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will be responsible for the safe, compliant and efficient running of our operational departments, leading depot supervisors and ensuring the business continues to deliver exceptional service to our customers.

This is a varied, hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys being involved in every aspect of the operation—from people management and transport compliance to depot maintenance, health & safety and continuous improvement.

• Operational Management
• Overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of four operational depots.
• Line management and development of four Depot Supervisors.
• Drive operational efficiency whilst maintaining excellent customer service.
• Support with planning and delivery of same-day and emergency deliveries.
• Monitor KPIs and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Work closely with Sales, Customer Service and Finance to ensure smooth business operations.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies.
• Transport & Fleet
• Oversee transport operations across the business.
• Ensure compliance with all transport legislation.
• Manage vehicle maintenance, servicing, MOTs and defect reporting.
• Ensure daily vehicle checks are completed correctly.
• Support route planning and fleet utilisation.
• Maintain relationships with external vehicle suppliers and contractors.
• Health, Safety & Compliance
• Lead Health & Safety across all operational sites.
• Ensure compliance with HSE legislation.
• Maintain risk assessments and operational procedures.
• Lead accident investigations and implement corrective actions.
• Create and update toolbox talks and operational training.
• Manage operational audits and compliance documentation.
• Depot & Facilities Management
• Oversee maintenance and presentation of all depots.
• Coordinate repairs, contractors and site improvements.
• Manage security systems including CCTV, alarms and access control.
• Ensure depots remain safe, secure and operational at all times.
• Leadership
• Lead and develop a high-performing operations team.
• Conduct performance reviews and support supervisor development.
• Manage operational recruitment alongside HR where required.
• Manage absence, performance and disciplinary matters alongside supervisors and HR.
• Support succession planning and staff development.
• Build strong working relationships across all departments.

Experience

You'll be an experienced operational leader who enjoys solving problems, making decisions and leading by example.

• Previous Operations, Transport or Distribution Management experience.
• Experience managing multiple sites.
• Excellent knowledge of Health & Safety legislation.
• Experience managing warehouse and transport operations.
• Strong organisational and planning skills.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Willingness to travel regularly between company depots.
• ADR or fuel industry experience.
• Knowledge of HGV Operator Licence compliance.
• Experience managing facilities and contractors.
• Personal Attributes
• Leads from the front.
• Practical and hands-on.
• Calm under pressure.
• Excellent problem solver.
• Takes ownership and accountability.
• Builds strong working relationships.
• Continuously seeks operational improvements.

Due to the nature of our business, flexibility is essential.

There will be occasions where you will be required to respond to operational issues outside normal working hours, including depot security, emergency deliveries, vehicle breakdowns or other operational incidents.

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