Operations Manager - EU Freight
Operations Manager - EU Freight

Operations Manager - EU Freight

Lutterworth Full-Time 58000 - 63000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team to optimise inbound freight operations and procurement strategies.
  • Company: Wayfair is a leading online home goods retailer, innovating logistics and shopping experiences.
  • Benefits: Enjoy perks like employee discounts, private medical care, gym memberships, and tuition reimbursement.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team driving global logistics and make a real impact in the industry.
  • Qualifications: Experience in logistics or operations management, strong leadership, and analytical skills required.
  • Other info: Flexibility for regular travel to London office; diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

The predicted salary is between 58000 - 63000 £ per year.

Office Based: Lutterworth Magna Park
Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Salary: The salary range for this position is £68,000 – £75,750 per year. The base salary offered may vary depending on location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Restricted stock units will be provided as part of the compensation package.

Company Benefits: Wayfair Employee Discount, Private Medical Care, Dental Care, Gym Membership, Tuition Reimbursement, 25 Days starting Holiday (with tenure entitlement) + Bank Holidays, Pension, Cycle to Work scheme amongst others.

Revolutionise global freight operations and lead the charge in optimising Wayfair\’s logistics!

CastleGate Forwarding (CGF) is a rapidly growing digital freight forwarding startup within Wayfair. We\’re dedicated to moving containers globally, from Wayfair suppliers to our shelves and beyond. We provide a full suite of shipping services, including consolidation in Asia, ocean freight, drayage, customs brokerage, and cargo insurance. Our goal is to offer Wayfair suppliers efficient and competitive logistics solutions. We leverage our proprietary end-to-end logistics network to enhance speed, quality, and cost efficiency.

As an Operations Manager will be a key leader in our organization, responsible for steering the team that manages and optimizes our inbound freight operations and procurement strategy. Your primary focus will be to oversee carrier relationships, negotiate contracts, and improve operational efficiencies. You will be instrumental in driving cost savings and ensuring we consistently deliver high service levels. This role requires exceptional leadership, analytical problem-solving abilities, and a strategic approach to enhance transportation and procurement performance in the European market.

What You’ll Do:

Leadership & Strategy

  • Manage a team of logistics professionals, providing coaching and career development.
  • Drive operational excellence by owning financial performance and executing strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Collaborate with key stakeholders across departments to ensure operational success and service quality.

Freight Forwarding & Carrier Management

  • Develop and implement carrier strategies for inbound freight to ensure both cost-effectiveness and reliability. Stay current on market trends, pricing, and new logistics solutions to maintain a competitive edge.
  • Continuously track and improve carrier performance using key metrics like cost, transit times, and service levels.
  • Manage and lead the negotiation of contracts and service level agreements with drayage providers.

Procurement & Vendor Management

  • Oversee the entire procurement process, including vendor selection, contract negotiation, and risk mitigation related to supplier reliability and cost volatility.
  • Develop and maintain strong, long-term partnerships with carriers to ensure competitive pricing and a reliable supply chain.
  • Implement systems to track costs and measure performance, driving continuous improvement in the procurement process.

Technology & Process Optimization

  • Partner with Technology and Business Intelligence teams to utilize data, automation, and reporting tools.
  • Create and deploy carrier and procurement dashboards to track performance and pinpoint areas for improvement, while also standardizing and automating processes to enhance efficiency.

What You Bring:

  • Demonstrable experience in logistics, supply chain or operations management, with a track record of successfully managing carrier partnerships and performance.
  • Proven experience managing and developing teams, with a focus on fostering a high-performance culture.
  • Analytical and data-driven mindset, with the ability to translate insights into actionable strategies
  • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills, with a structured approach to tackling operational challenges.
  • Proven ability in negotiation and vendor management, adept at resolving complex issues and fostering collaborative relationships that drive mutual success.
  • Proficiency in Google or Microsoft Suite and data visualization tools such as Google Data Studio, Looker, Tableau or Power BI. Any SQL/GBQ knowledge is a plus.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience leading cross-functional initiatives.

Additional Requirements

  • Have the flexibility of regular travel to our London office at least once a month.

Although Logistics, supply chain, or operations management experience is essential, any additional knowledge of procurement, freight forwarding, drayage, or ocean carrier management would be a plus.

Ready to take the next step? Hit apply and let’s talk – our recruiting team is excited to hear from you!

# Disclaimer: Wayfair uses multiple job titles for advertising optimisation purposes however your internal title may differ from that on the advert.

About Wayfair Inc.

Wayfair is one of the world’s largest online destinations for the home. Whether you work in our global headquarters in Boston, or in our warehouses or offices throughout the world, we’re reinventing the way people shop for their homes. Through our commitment to industry-leading technology and creative problem-solving, we are confident that Wayfair will be home to the most rewarding work of your career. If you’re looking for rapid growth, constant learning, and dynamic challenges, then you’ll find that amazing career opportunities are knocking.

No matter who you are, Wayfair is a place you can call home. We’re a community of innovators, risk-takers, and trailblazers who celebrate our differences, and know that our unique perspectives make us stronger, smarter, and well-positioned for success. We value and rely on the collective voices of our employees, customers, community, and suppliers to help guide us as we build a better Wayfair – and world – for all. Every voice, every perspective matters. That’s why we’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Your personal data is processed in accordance with our Candidate Privacy Notice (https://www.wayfair.com/careers/privacy). If you have any questions or wish to exercise your rights under applicable privacy and data protection laws, please contact us atdataprotectionofficer@wayfair.com.

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Operations Manager - EU Freight employer: Wayfair

Wayfair is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Lutterworth Magna Park. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including private medical care, gym memberships, and generous holiday allowances, employees are empowered to grow both personally and professionally. Join a dynamic team at CastleGate Forwarding, where your contributions will directly impact global logistics and where every voice is valued in our commitment to building a better workplace.
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Contact Detail:

Wayfair Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Operations Manager - EU Freight

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in logistics and supply chain management. Understanding current market dynamics will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your proactive approach to staying informed.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the logistics and freight forwarding industry. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals for the Operations Manager role.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed carrier relationships and improved operational efficiencies in your previous roles. Real-life scenarios will showcase your expertise and problem-solving skills.

✨Tip Number 4

Brush up on your negotiation skills, as this role heavily involves contract negotiations with carriers. Consider role-playing scenarios with a friend or mentor to build confidence in articulating your strategies and approaches.

We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager - EU Freight

Leadership Skills
Strategic Thinking
Operational Excellence
Carrier Management
Contract Negotiation
Procurement Processes
Vendor Management
Analytical Skills
Data-Driven Decision Making
Problem-Solving Skills
Stakeholder Management
Communication Skills
Performance Metrics Tracking
Process Optimization
Proficiency in Google or Microsoft Suite
Data Visualisation Tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
SQL/GBQ Knowledge

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in logistics, supply chain, or operations management. Emphasise any leadership roles and specific achievements that align with the responsibilities of the Operations Manager position.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Wayfair's mission and how your skills can contribute to optimising their logistics operations. Mention your experience with carrier management and procurement strategies.

Highlight Analytical Skills: Given the emphasis on data-driven decision-making in the job description, ensure you provide examples of how you've used analytics to improve operational efficiencies or solve complex problems in previous roles.

Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires strong communication and stakeholder management skills, include examples of successful cross-functional initiatives you've led. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively within a team.

How to prepare for a job interview at Wayfair

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As an Operations Manager, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed and developed teams in the past.

✨Demonstrate Analytical Thinking

This role requires a strong analytical mindset. Be ready to share specific instances where you've used data to drive decisions or improve operational efficiencies, especially in logistics or supply chain contexts.

✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios

Negotiation is key in this position. Think of examples where you've successfully negotiated contracts or resolved complex issues with vendors, and be prepared to discuss your approach and outcomes.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Technology Tools

Proficiency in data visualisation tools is essential. Brush up on your knowledge of Google Data Studio, Tableau, or Power BI, and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools to enhance processes or track performance.

Operations Manager - EU Freight
Wayfair

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