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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead logistics, warehousing, and transport operations for a dynamic educational supplies company.
- Company: Join a respected family-run business with over 50 years of experience in the education sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus scheme, and a stable work environment.
- Why this job: Shape operational strategy and drive improvements in a supportive, growth-focused culture.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in logistics, compliance knowledge, and strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: Transport Manager qualification is a plus but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 70000 £ per year.
Job Description
A successful and well-established family run supplier of educational supplies and hygiene products to schools across the South East, is seeking a dynamic and commercially minded Head of Operations. With its Head Office in Colchester and Distribution Centre in Chelmsford and offering a competitive salary of up to £70,000, plus participation in the company bonus scheme, this senior strategic position presents an exciting opportunity for a proven leader with experience in managing fast-paced, high-volume logistics, warehousing, and transport operations.
In addition to overseeing logistics and warehousing, the role also carries responsibility for company facilities, compliance, and H&S management across all operational sites. A Transport Manager qualification would be an advantage.
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The Role
As Head of Operations, you will take overall responsibility for the strategic planning and day-to-day operational performance of the in-house Chelmsford warehouse, transport fleet, and third-party logistics providers. You will report directly to the business owners and help shape the long-term operational strategy by implementing scalable systems, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring high standards of customer service and operational excellence across all operational functions.
Key Responsibilities:
– Lead the end-to-end logistics, warehousing, and transport strategy, ensuring alignment with broader business goals
– Oversee operations at the Chelmsford warehouse, Colchester HQ and other operational sites as required.
– Oversee transport fleet, including driver supervision, vehicle compliance, cost control, and route optimisation
– Maintain compliance standards across fleet, warehouse, and regulatory areas, including H&S, ISO, and annual audits
– Manage facilities operations, ensuring all sites are safe, functional, and fit for purpose
– Identify and deliver operational improvements through data-driven insights and system development
– Lead and develop cross-functional teams to deliver high performance and a culture of ownership and accountability
-Monitor KPIs and metrics, ensuring service levels are met while driving productivity and cost-effectiveness
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The Candidate
A strategic, hands-on operator who combines strong commercial acumen with deep operational experience across logistics, warehousing, and fleet management. You will have experience managing multi-site operations, distribution, or supply chain environments, and will bring a proactive approach to continuous improvement and leadership.
– Proven leadership and stakeholder management experience at all levels
– A sound understanding of fleet operations, compliance, and transport planning
– An understanding of fundamental profit and loss
– Experience managing facilities, audits, and company-wide health & safety procedures
– A structured, analytical mindset with strong command of KPIs and performance data
– A mix of strategic thinking and operational involvement as needed
– Excellent planning, communication, and organisational skills
– A Transport Manager CPC qualification (desirable but not essential)
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The Company
With more than 50 years of experience, this respected family-run business has earned a strong reputation for supplying high-quality educational products to schools and colleges throughout the South East. Built on service, trust, and family values, the business continues to grow and modernise while offering a stable and rewarding environment for ambitious professionals looking to make a lasting contribution.
Head of Operations employer: Response
Contact Detail:
Response Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the company's history and values. Since this is a family-run business, understanding their commitment to service and trust can help you align your approach during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in managing multi-site operations. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully overseen logistics and warehousing across different locations, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your knowledge of compliance standards and health & safety regulations. Given the responsibilities of the role, showcasing your expertise in these areas will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your approach to continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making. The company is looking for someone who can implement scalable systems, so sharing relevant strategies you've used in the past will be beneficial.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in logistics, warehousing, and transport operations. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and operational achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your strategic thinking and hands-on approach. Mention how your background aligns with the company's values and goals, particularly in improving operational performance.
Highlight Key Achievements: In your application, emphasise any significant improvements you've made in previous roles, such as cost reductions, efficiency gains, or successful project implementations related to logistics and operations.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Demonstrate your ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage stakeholder relationships. Provide examples of how you've fostered a culture of accountability and high performance in past positions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Response
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Operations, demonstrating your leadership experience is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed stakeholders, and driven operational improvements in previous roles.
✨Understand the Business Model
Familiarise yourself with the company's operations, especially their logistics and supply chain processes. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their business model will show that you're genuinely interested and well-prepared.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in logistics or compliance and how you overcame them, as this will highlight your analytical mindset and strategic thinking.
✨Demonstrate Data-Driven Decision Making
Since the role involves monitoring KPIs and performance metrics, be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in past positions. This will illustrate your structured approach and understanding of operational excellence.
