We are looking to recruit a Warehouse First Line Manager (FLM) initially on a 6 month fixed contract to join our distribution team based at our site, National Distribution Centre in Walsall (WS2 8DQ). Reporting to the Warehouse Manager & Supply Chain & Operations Director, the FLM is a role model for operational excellence and team engagement, and specifically this role will be about driving improvements across targeted areas of the operation to deliver lasting change. It will require deep diving into golden path processes to understand the "to-be" and converting the "as-is" to this. This role will sit outside of the current day to day operation and is specifically being recruited to drive improvement and change to make the operation world class.
Safety and Compliance
- Champion a safety-first culture, ensuring all team members adhere to health and safety policies and procedures
- Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and toolbox talks or equivalent
- Investigate incidents and near misses, implementing corrective actions and preventative measures
- Ensure compliance with legal and company standards (e.g., manual handling, PPE, equipment use)
People Management
- Lead, coach, and develop a team of warehouse operatives to achieve individual and team goals
- Manage daily team briefings, shift handovers, and communication of operational priorities
- Monitor attendance, timekeeping, and conduct, escalating issues as appropriate
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and training of new team members
- Foster a positive working environment that promotes teamwork, respect, and inclusion
Operational Excellence
- Oversee the execution of warehouse tasks including goods-in, picking, packing, despatch, admin process and inventory control
- Manage deployment of resources, space, and equipment to meet operational demands
- Identify continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes and reduce waste
- Support change management activities and adoption of new systems or procedures
- Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as productivity, accuracy, throughput, and service levels
- Use data to identify trends, root causes of issues, and support opportunities for improvement
- Drive accountability for performance within the team, recognising achievements and addressing underperformance
- Collaborate with other departments (e.g., planning, transport, customer service) to ensure end-to-end efficiency
Essential
- Proven experience in a warehouse or logistics environment, ideally in a supervisory or team leader role
- Strong understanding of warehouse operations and safety standards
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to lead by example and motivate others
- Comfortable using warehouse management systems (WMS) and performance dashboards
- Problem-solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement
Desirable
- Experience with Lean or Continuous Improvement methodologies
- Experience in Microsoft Dynamics 365
- Experience in an industrial fastenings or manufacturing environment
About TR Fastenings
TR Fastenings (TR) is part of Trifast plc is a leading international specialist in the design, engineering, manufacture, and distribution of high-quality industrial fastenings and Category \'C\' components principally to major global assembly industries. It supplies to some 5,000 customers in 75 countries worldwide, serving a range of industries including Automotive, Smart Infrastructure, Medical, General Industrial and Distributors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land First Line Manager in Birmingham
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like TR Fastenings, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to TR Fastenings specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at TR Fastenings
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with TR Fastenings, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like TR Fastenings value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
