Commercial Operations Manager in Derby

Commercial Operations Manager | Derby | Full-time, on site
This is an opportunity to work directly alongside the Managing Director of an established specialist healthcare distributor, combining commercial growth with hands-on involvement across the business.
If you enjoy building supplier relationships, spotting opportunities, improving how things work and bringing a team with you, this role offers the scope to make a visible difference.
The Business
Our client is a respected independent distributor supplying medicines, clinical consumables and specialist practice products to customers across the UK and Ireland.
With an established customer base, strong supplier relationships and opportunities to expand into new markets, the business is looking for someone who can bring fresh commercial thinking while learning from an experienced team.
You'll work closely with the Managing Director to understand the business from end to end, then turn that knowledge into practical growth initiatives.
Your remit will span customers, suppliers, products, pricing and operations. One day you could be evaluating a new product range or negotiating with a supplier; the next, building a business case, improving a process or developing a key customer relationship.
You'll have direct access to decision-makers, room to contribute ideas and the opportunity to see your work translate into results. As your understanding and contribution grow, there is scope to take on broader leadership responsibility.
Identify and deliver growth opportunities across existing customers and new markets.
Develop supplier relationships, negotiate commercial terms and explore new sourcing opportunities.
Review the product portfolio, identifying where to expand, improve or simplify the range.
Manage key customer relationships and support acquisition and retention.
Use performance data and market insight to improve pricing, profitability and customer value.
Work with the team to improve commercial and operational processes.
Build an understanding of distribution and regulatory requirements, supported by training and experienced colleagues.
You'll have a rounded commercial and operational background in an SME or mid-sized business that makes, moves or sells physical products.
You could be a Commercial Manager, Operations Manager, Business Manager or similar professional looking for greater breadth and influence. You'll bring:
Experience managing people and building trusted working relationships.
Strong supplier or key