At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead logistics operations and manage relationships with 3PLs and parcel carriers.
- Company: Dynamic logistics company focused on operational excellence and continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Negotiable salary, flexible work schedule, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and enjoy a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in logistics while driving efficiency and innovation.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in logistics, strong analytical skills, and experience with 3PL management.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking a results-driven and experienced Senior Logistics Operations Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of our clients third-party logistics (3PL) warehouse operations and parcel carriers supporting both B2B and D2C fulfilment. This role is critical in ensuring operational excellence, meeting key performance indicators (KPIs), driving continuous improvement initiatives, and managing vendor relationships to support scalable and cost-efficient logistics operations that meet or exceed customer service expectations. Our ideal candidate will have a strong background in logistics and supply chain management, with demonstrated success in managing outsourced warehouse operations, carrier management, optimising processes, and delivering against operational and financial goals. Experience in both B2B and D2C operations is a must.
Your Role
- Carrier Management UK & EU
- Manage day-to-day relationships with parcel carriers across UK and Europe
- Lead carrier selection, onboarding, and offboarding processes
- Develop and execute parcel carrier strategy aligned with business objectives
- Monitor market trends, capacity, and service offerings to optimise carrier mix
- Track and report carrier KPIs including on-time delivery, claims, damage rates, and service exceptions
- 3PL Warehouse Operations UK
- Oversee daily operations of 3PL-managed distribution centres, ensuring efficient inbound, storage, outbound, and returns processing.
- Serve as the primary point of contact between the company and third-party logistics providers.
- Ensure operational processes are aligned with company standards, compliance requirements, and customer service expectations.
- Performance Management & KPIs
- Define, monitor, and report on operational KPIs such as on-time shipping, order accuracy, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock time, and cost per order.
- Conduct regular performance reviews with 3PL partners and internal stakeholders to track progress and resolve issues.
- Drive accountability and service improvements through data-driven performance management.
- Budget & Cost Control
- Partner with Finance and Logistics team members to develop and manage the annual logistics budget, including warehousing, labour, and transportation-related costs.
- Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities while maintaining or improving service levels.
- Analyse monthly variances and ensure financial targets are met or exceeded.
- Vendor Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with 3PLs and other logistics service providers.
- Lead vendor selection, onboarding, contract negotiation, and service level agreement (SLA) development.
- Ensure vendors are compliant with company standards, safety requirements, and regulatory obligations.
- Partner with Procurement and Finance to develop and execute Requests for Proposal (RFP's) to identify and select 3PL partners, as required.
- Continuous Improvement
- Lead and support continuous improvement projects to optimise warehouse layout, processes, inventory accuracy, labour productivity, and order fulfilment.
- Leverage Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies to reduce waste and improve operational efficiency.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., IT, procurement, customer service) to drive supply chain innovation and systems integration.
What You'll Bring:
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations Management, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
- 7+ years of experience in logistics or warehouse operations, including significant experience managing 3PL partners.
- Proven success in managing budgets, vendor relationships, and large-scale logistics operations.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Experience with WMS, TMS, and ERP systems; proficiency with Excel and logistics analytics tools.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
- Travel Required - up to 25%
- Flexible work schedule to accommodate virtual meetings with other regions
Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Logistics Operations Manager (Distribution Centre 3PL) in Northampton
✨Get to Know the Local Scene
Temporary roles in logistics and supply chain often rely on local connections. Visit local businesses or warehouses and introduce yourself! You'd be surprised how often work is filled through word of mouth, so put yourself out there.
✨Leverage Industry Events
Look for trade shows, logistics expos, or supply chain seminars happening in your area. These events are goldmines for networking and often feature companies looking for temporary staff. It’s a great way to make a lasting impression!
✨Be Ready to Flex Your Skills
In temporary roles, employers want people who can easily adapt. Brush up on your knowledge of inventory management systems or logistics software—anything that can show you're ready to jump in right away. It will make you stand out!
✨Apply through Our Website!
Don't forget to check our listings at StudySmarter! We often have great temporary roles in logistics and supply chain that you can apply for directly. Getting your application in through our site is a solid step towards landing your next gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Logistics Operations Manager (Distribution Centre 3PL) in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Logistics Know-How:When applying for a Senior Logistics Operations Manager (Distribution Centre 3PL) in logistics and supply chain, make sure to highlight your relevant skills such as inventory management, procurement knowledge, and experience with logistics software. Tailor your CV to show any specific projects or coursework you've completed that relate to the field—specifics matter!
Flexibility is Key:Since this is a temporary position, it's important to showcase your flexibility in your cover letter. Employers want to know that you can hit the ground running and adapt quickly to changing priorities, so share examples of previous roles where you've shown this adaptability.
Include Certifications and Training:If you have any relevant certifications like a Forklift License or training in supply chain management, make sure these are front and centre in your application. They really can set you apart in the logistics field, especially for a temporary role where employers may prefer someone who's ready to jump straight into the task at hand.
Why You Want This Role:In your cover letter, express why you're interested in this temporary position at Search. Use it as a chance to show your enthusiasm for the logistics field and how this experience will help you grow professionally. Remember, it’s about more than just the job—show us you're keen to learn and make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Search
✨Know Your Supply Chain Basics
Brush up on fundamental supply chain concepts, like inventory management and logistics strategies. Since this is a temporary role, having a quick grasp of these basics can set you apart and show that you can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss real-life scenarios where you solved logistics challenges. Interviewers love hearing how you approached issues like delays or order discrepancies, so come prepared with a couple of solid examples that highlight your critical thinking skills.
✨Stay Flexible and Open-Minded
As a temporary candidate, we need to demonstrate adaptability. Be prepared to discuss how you can quickly integrate into different teams and handle diverse tasks. This can really showcase your potential to thrive in a fast-paced environment like logistics.
✨Get Familiar with Logistics Tools
Familiarise yourself with common supply chain management software, such as SAP or Oracle. Mentioning these tools during your interview can impress your interviewer at Search and demonstrate your readiness to engage with their systems right away.
