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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise warehouse operations, logistics, and delivery teams in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a family-run SME with over 50 years of experience and a commitment to quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, pension scheme, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving operational excellence and leading a motivated team.
- Qualifications: Strong logistics knowledge, leadership skills, and a proactive approach required.
- Other info: Clear progression pathway into senior leadership roles and a supportive team culture.
Location: Loughborough
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 (depending on experience)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
About the Business
Our client is a well-established, family-run SME with over 50 years' experience supplying a wide range of products to both the education and commercial sectors. Their offering includes office paper and stationery, workwear, PPE, cleaning supplies and a full range of office and educational furniture. Operating from a 17,000 sq ft warehouse, the business provides a reliable next-day delivery service supported by its own fleet of drivers. Known for exceptional customer service, long-standing client relationships and a commitment to high-quality, sustainable solutions, the company also delivers bespoke furniture projects including site surveys, CAD design and full installation.
The Role
We are seeking a hands-on Operations Manager for this fast-paced, growing SME. This pivotal position oversees all warehouse operations, goods in/out, logistics, the delivery fleet and installation activities — ensuring day-to-day operations run efficiently and effectively. This role is both practical and strategic. The successful candidate will lead and develop the warehouse and driving teams while also stepping in operationally when needed, whether assisting in the warehouse or supporting deliveries.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all daily warehouse, logistics, fleet and installation operations.
- Manage approximately 2,000 stock lines, ensuring accurate stock rotation, efficient picking/packing and smooth goods in/out processes.
- Oversee daily cross-dock activity and liaise with Purchasing on inbound deliveries, stock discrepancies and annual stock checks.
- Maintain a clean, safe and well-organised warehouse and premises.
- Plan daily delivery routes, allocate work to drivers and ensure timely, cost-effective deliveries.
- Manage fleet maintenance and compliance, and minimise reliance on external carriers.
- Support furniture installation planning and execution.
- Step in operationally during busy periods or staff absences, including warehouse work and delivery support.
- Lead and develop the warehouse and driver teams, including recruitment, training, appraisals and performance management.
- Build a positive, motivated team culture and manage absence effectively.
- Oversee all Health & Safety requirements, including training, licences, risk assessments and compliance.
- Monitor operational KPIs, manage budgets and drive productivity, accuracy and service improvements.
- Implement efficient processes and promote LEAN, 5S and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Provide regular reporting to the senior leadership team and contribute to broader management discussions.
Requirements
Essential
- Strong logistics knowledge and a passion for operational excellence.
- A practical, proactive, hands-on leadership style.
- Excellent communication skills with both staff and customers.
- Experience managing teams and driving strong performance.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to adapt to changing priorities.
- Good attention to detail and commercial awareness.
- Confident user of Microsoft Office.
- Full UK driving licence.
Desirable
- Previous operations or logistics management experience.
- Forklift or HGV Class 2 licence.
- Experience using warehouse or inventory management systems.
- Practical DIY or furniture installation skills.
- Knowledge of LEAN or continuous improvement methodologies.
Benefits
- Salary between £50,000 - £60,000, depending on experience.
- Performance-related bonus scheme.
- Clear progression pathway, including opportunities to move into senior leadership roles.
- Company pension scheme.
- Free on-site parking.
- Staff discount across the product range.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
Operations Manager in Loughborough employer: Universal Business Team
Contact Detail:
Universal Business Team Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Loughborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their products and services, and think about how your skills can help them improve efficiency and customer service. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on articulating your experience in logistics and team management clearly. Confidence is key, so make sure you can showcase your hands-on leadership style effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our brand.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Loughborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your logistics knowledge and any hands-on leadership experience you have. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about operational excellence and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive performance and improve processes. We love seeing numbers and results that back up your claims!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Universal Business Team
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Make sure you understand the ins and outs of warehouse operations, logistics, and fleet management. Brush up on key concepts like stock rotation, delivery planning, and health & safety regulations. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your hands-on leadership approach. Think of examples where you've successfully managed teams, improved performance, or built a positive team culture. Highlighting your ability to motivate and develop staff will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Operations can be unpredictable, so think of scenarios where you've had to adapt quickly to changing priorities. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in logistics or warehouse management, and how you implemented efficient processes to improve operations.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions about the company's operations, team dynamics, and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
