At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead warehouse and transport operations, driving efficiency and exceptional customer service.
- Company: Family-owned distributor known for quality plumbing and drainage products.
- Benefits: Annual performance bonus, company mobile, pension scheme, and increasing holiday days.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equality.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on operational excellence.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in operations management with strong leadership skills.
About The Company Our client is a well-established, family-owned distributor supplying high-quality plumbing and drainage products to trade customers across the UK.
Renowned for exceptional customer service, reliable deliveries and long-standing customer relationships, they have built a strong reputation by combining operational excellence with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
The Role Our client is seeking an experienced and driven Operations Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who is passionate about operational excellence, continuous improvement and building high-performing teams.
You will take full ownership of our warehouse and transport operations, driving efficiency, accountability and exceptional customer service while supporting the company's future growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day warehouse and transport operation, managing a team of Warehouse Operatives, Delivery Drivers and the company fleet.
- Drive operational excellence by improving processes, increasing efficiency and implementing new systems and technologies.
- Manage warehouse performance, stock accuracy, inventory control and KPI reporting to ensure operational targets are consistently achieved.
- Lead, develop and manage the warehouse team through recruitment, training, performance reviews and disciplinary processes where required.
- Oversee transport planning, fleet management and delivery scheduling to maximise productivity and customer service.
- Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety legislation, operational procedures and transport regulations.
- Take ownership of workforce planning and operational systems, including Connecteam, Sage 200, Max Optra and future automation projects.
- Identify and implement opportunities to reduce costs, improve data accuracy and streamline manual processes using technology and AI where appropriate.
- Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, communication and continuous improvement across the operation.
- Obtain (or hold) the Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and support the ongoing development of the company's transport function.
Essential Experience & Skills
- Minimum 5 years' senior warehouse or operations management experience.
- Strong warehouse, logistics and transport management background.
- Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams.
- Excellent knowledge of stock control, warehouse systems and KPI management.
- Experience managing rotas, workforce planning and operational scheduling.
- Strong understanding of UK Health & Safety legislation.
- Experience implementing operational improvements and leading change.
- Confident using warehouse and workforce management systems (Connecteam experience desirable).
- Excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills. Whats on offer?
- Annual performance bonus of up to 10% based on agreed operational KPIs.
- Company mobile phone and laptop.
- Company pension scheme.
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays), increasing by one day per year (up to 33 days) through the loyalty holiday programme.
- Structured salary review after 12 months.
- Free on-site parking.
- This
- Role
- May
Suit: This role may suit candidates currently working in roles such as: Operations Manager, Warehouse Manager, Logistics Manager, Distribution Manager, Transport Manager, Warehouse & Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Operations Manager, Depot Manager, Fulfilment Manager or Branch Operations Manager.
If your experience is aligned with the responsibilities of this role but your current job title differs, we would still encourage you to apply.
Diversity & Inclusion At WE Talent, we believe that diverse teams create stronger organisations.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion throughout our recruitment process.
Every application is considered fairly, based on the skills, experience and potential needed for the role.
We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process where everyone has the opportunity to demonstrate what they can offer.
If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today or contact WE Talent for a confidential conversation
Operations Manager employer: WE Talent
At WE Talent, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values autonomy and employee engagement. Located in Essex, our dynamic work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth within a supportive environment. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a thriving plumbing distribution business where your contributions are recognised and valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like WE Talent and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at WE Talent!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like WE Talent keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to WE Talent:This is your chance to really connect with the team at WE Talent. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at WE Talent
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with WE Talent.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show WE Talent that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at WE Talent. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
