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- Tasks: Lead our operations team, ensuring smooth warehouse processes and inspiring your colleagues.
- Company: Join Smiths News, the UK's largest news wholesaler, serving 22,400 retailers daily.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health cash plans, 25 days holiday, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team culture where your leadership is recognised and valued.
- Qualifications: Experience in fast-paced environments and people management is preferred; training provided.
- Other info: Night shifts from Tuesday to Friday, with flexible hours and a focus on diversity.
Full Time – Night Shift
Saturday and Sunday night off
Monday-Thursday night 21:30 – 05:30
Friday night 20:00 – 04:00
£30025 per annum
Our reputation as the UK’s largest newspaper and magazine wholesaler speaks for itself. Every day, we serve more than 22,000 customers from 34 distribution centres across the country. Behind every nightly miracle is a team of dedicated people carrying out more roles than you realise – we’re the unseen force that delivers. So when we say we’re excited for what the future holds for our customers and colleagues, you can trust we’re as good as our word.
About the role
As Operations Team Leader, you’ll be behind the success of our warehouse operations. Overseeing a dedicated team, you’ll make sure everything runs smoothly, safely and efficiently. You’ll be who we look to for keeping the team motivated, organised, and performing at their best through training sessions, monitoring attendance/performance and more. Whether you’re handling communication between team members and managers, maintaining high standards of housekeeping, or getting hands-on yourself, your leadership will make a direct impact on productivity and safety. You’re the kind of person who thrives in a fast-paced environment, balancing priorities and adapting to changing needs. If you’re a natural leader with a passion for achieving targets, improving performance, and developing your team, this is the role for you. Read the full job description by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page.
What we can offer you
Not only do we offer free onsite parking and competitive salary but you’ll also have access to:
- Company funded Health Cash Plan – providing cash back for everyday healthcare costs such as dental, optical and physiotherapy
- 5% match pension
- 25 days holiday plus holiday buy scheme
- 24/7 E-Learning modules, Training and Development opportunities
- Sharesave Scheme, Cycle to work schemes, Health cash plan
- Colleague Assistance Programme & Colleague referral scheme
About you
Although a track record in warehouse management would be desirable, people management experience gained in other sectors would be considered. You’ll ideally have:
- Experience of working in a fast paced environment, preferably from a 24/7 logistics, warehouse, FMCG or similar industry background
- Experience managing a large operation and the ability to liaise at all levels
- Outstanding communication skills and the credibility to effectively build relationships with all team members and management
- Experience of planning and effectively executing a warehouse operation. Dealing with all issues and challenges as they arise
Don’t just take us at our word – experience it for yourself. We’re a business built on support, opportunities, loyalty and care. Let’s make the most of today’s opportunities and look to the future, together. Apply now
Please note: you must have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this position.
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Contact Detail:
Smiths News Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Team Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges of night shifts. Highlight your adaptability and experience in managing teams during unconventional hours, as this will show that you understand the unique dynamics of working at night.
✨Tip Number 2
Emphasise your leadership style and how it aligns with fostering a collaborative team culture. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've inspired and motivated teams in previous roles, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Smiths News and their operations thoroughly. Understanding their values, mission, and the specifics of their warehouse processes will allow you to tailor your approach and demonstrate genuine interest in the company.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with health and safety compliance. Given the importance of these regulations in warehouse operations, showcasing your knowledge and commitment to maintaining high standards will set you apart.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Team Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in warehouse management or people management. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held and specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for operational excellence and your leadership style. Mention how your previous experiences align with the responsibilities of the Operations Team Leader role and how you can contribute to the team culture at Smiths News.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your outstanding communication skills and your ability to build relationships with team members and management. Provide examples of how you've effectively managed operations and dealt with challenges in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a leadership position in operations.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smiths News
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operations Team Leader, your ability to lead and inspire a team is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, highlighting your communication skills and ability to motivate others.
✨Demonstrate Operational Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with warehouse operations and logistics. Be ready to discuss your experience in planning and executing warehouse processes, as well as how you ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of scenarios where you've dealt with challenges in a fast-paced environment and be prepared to explain how you resolved them effectively.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Smiths News values a collaborative culture. Share examples of how you've worked with different teams or departments to achieve common goals, showcasing your ability to build relationships at all levels.
