At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations in global sourcing, procurement, and logistics for a dynamic furniture business.
- Company: Join an ambitious company with a start-up vibe and a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, supportive team, and opportunities for personal impact.
- Other info: Regular travel across the UK and Europe; we value diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Why this job: Shape the future of our operations while enjoying a fast-paced, innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, logistics, and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
We're not your typical 30-year-old company.
Yes, we've been around for three decades, but we still operate with the energy, pace, and ambition of a start-up.
We're in an exciting phase of change and growth, evolving rapidly, and continuously looking for smarter ways to deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.
Our culture is fast-moving, collaborative and entrepreneurial. We work hard, support each other, celebrate success, and give talented people the opportunity to make a real impact.
As we continue to scale, we're looking for a dynamic, commercially-minded Operations Manager who thrives in a fast-paced environment and wants to play a major role in shaping the next chapter of our business.
The Role
This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for managing the operational backbone of our global contract furniture business.
You’ll oversee everything from sourcing and procurement through to global freight, third-party warehousing, delivery, and installation.
You’ll work with suppliers, freight partners, warehouse providers, installation teams, and internal stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to an exceptional standard.
We’re looking for someone who is proactive, solutions-focused, commercially aware, and not afraid to roll up their sleeves when needed.
- Procurement & Sourcing
- Managing the procurement and sourcing of contract furniture and related products globally.
- Building strong relationships with manufacturers and suppliers.
- Negotiating pricing, lead times, payment terms, and service agreements.
- Identifying new suppliers and sourcing opportunities to support business growth.
- Working with the sales and project team to develop commercially competitive proposals for customers.
- Managing supplier risk and continuity of supply.
- Monitoring supplier performance and driving continuous improvement.
- Managing inbound and outbound freight operations worldwide.
- Developing and maintaining relationships with freight forwarders and logistics providers.
- Negotiating freight costs and service levels.
- Monitoring shipment performance and resolving supply chain challenges.
- Ensuring compliance with international shipping and customs requirements.
- Third-Party Warehousing
- Managing relationships with third-party warehouse providers.
- Ensuring stock accuracy, inventory control, and efficient warehouse operations.
- Reviewing warehouse KPIs and driving operational improvements.
- Supporting capacity planning as the business continues to grow.
- Delivery & Installation Operations
- Coordinating furniture deliveries and installation programmes for global projects.
- Managing installation partners and subcontractors.
- Ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
- Solving problems quickly and effectively when challenges arise.
- Maintaining the highest standards of customer experience.
- Operations & Continuous Improvement
- Developing operational processes that support business growth.
- Using data and reporting to improve performance and decision-making.
- Identifying cost-saving and efficiency opportunities across the supply chain.
- Supporting the wider leadership team with operational strategy and planning.
What We're Looking For
We're interested in attitude and capability just as much as experience.
You'll be someone who enjoys working in a growing business, can manage multiple priorities, and is motivated by finding solutions and making things happen.
- Experience in procurement, sourcing, operations, logistics, or supply chain management.
- Experience managing suppliers and negotiating commercial agreements.
- Strong understanding of international freight and logistics operations.
- Experience managing third-party warehouse providers.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- Strong commercial awareness and business acumen.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities.
- High attention to detail and excellent problem-solving skills.
- Experience using or implementing ERP and CRM systems and operational management software.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
This role involves sourcing suppliers and managing third-party warehouse partners, and therefore requires regular travel throughout the UK, Europe and, occasionally, further afield.
You must be comfortable travelling independently, whether that involves driving to sites within the UK or flying overseas.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of an ambitious company entering its next phase of growth.
- Opportunity to genuinely shape and influence how we operate.
- Work with a talented and supportive team.
- Enjoy a fast-paced environment where great ideas are encouraged and rewarded.
- Make a real impact on a business with significant growth ambitions.
We are based in Maidenhead, we work on a hybrid basis with three days a week in the office.
We know that sometimes people don’t apply for a role if they think they can’t tick every box. But we realise the ‘perfect candidate’ may not exist.
We recruit and develop employees who are the best suited to the requirements of the role, regardless of gender, ethnic origin, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.
If there are any adjustments we can make to the application or selection process so you can do your best, let us know.
We will be happy to help.
We review applications as they are received and will arrange interviews with suitable candidates throughout the recruitment process.
As a result, we may close the vacancy once we have identified the right candidate.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Operations Manager - Global Sourcing, Procurement & Logistics in Maidenhead employer: Protocol Furniture
Join a dynamic and ambitious company that combines the energy of a start-up with three decades of experience in the global contract furniture industry. Our collaborative and entrepreneurial culture fosters employee growth, allowing you to make a significant impact while working alongside a talented team in a fast-paced environment. With a hybrid work model based in Maidenhead, we offer the flexibility to thrive both in the office and remotely, ensuring you can contribute to our exciting phase of growth and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager - Global Sourcing, Procurement & Logistics in Maidenhead
✨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 Protocol Furniture 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 Protocol Furniture!
✨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 Protocol Furniture 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 Operations Manager - Global Sourcing, Procurement & Logistics in Maidenhead
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 Protocol Furniture:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Protocol Furniture. 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 Protocol Furniture
✨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 Protocol Furniture.
✨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 Protocol Furniture 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 Protocol Furniture. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!