Operations Manager in Bristol

Operations Manager in Bristol

Bristol Full-Time 36000 - 60000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
Whistl UK Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead dynamic warehouse operations and drive team performance in a fast-paced logistics environment.
  • Company: Join the UK's leading delivery management company with a strong team culture.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension, health plans, and career development opportunities.
  • Other info: Embrace a supportive environment focused on well-being, diversity, and personal growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping daily operations and leading teams to success.
  • Qualifications: 3+ years in logistics management, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.

Lead from the front in a dynamic logistics environment where your expertise drives real results every day. We’re looking for an experienced Operations Manager to join our dynamic operations team in Bristol. In this fast‑paced role, you’ll lead day‑to‑day warehouse operations across shifts, ensuring we deliver an efficient, safe, and cost‑effective service to our clients. If you thrive in a high‑volume logistics environment and know how to lead teams to success, we want to hear from you.

As Operations Manager, you’ll report to the General Manager and oversee the planning, staffing, and process execution across shifts in our warehouse. You’ll play a hands‑on role in managing people and performance while maintaining high standards in quality, efficiency, and health & safety.

What You’ll Bring:
  • A proactive, hands‑on leadership style that motivates teams to deliver results.
  • A continuous improvement mindset, always looking for better ways to operate.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
  • A strong sense of accountability and ownership for both people and performance.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operational Planning: Ensure staffing and shift plans support SLA performance across all elements within a busy sortation depot.
  • Leadership: Lead and support Shift Managers, Supervisors, and Team Leaders through coaching, daily briefings, and performance management.
  • Cost Control: Manage labour planning and monitor site costs against budgets, seeking continuous improvement.
  • Customer Service: Build strong relationships with clients and internal stakeholders to proactively manage delivery expectations.
  • Compliance: Ensure warehouse operations meet HSE and security standards, with full induction for all staff and agency workers.
  • Change Management: Champion and implement operational improvements and support business change initiatives.

You’ll also act as site lead in the General Manager’s absence, playing a key role in maintaining day‑to‑day site performance and long‑term operational stability.

Shift Details:

Working hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Essential Skills:
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in a fast‑paced warehouse or logistics operations management role (e.g. FMCG or e‑commerce).
  • Proven experience in people management, including performance reviews, staff development, disciplinary procedures, grievance handling, and absence management, with excellent communication and decision‑making skills under pressure.
  • Strong understanding of labour planning, SLA targets, and process optimisation.
  • Skilled in using WMS systems and MS Excel (pivot tables, graphs, reporting).
  • Strong commitment to Health & Safety and compliance.
  • Experience managing third‑party carriers (e.g. DPD, DX, Royal Mail).
  • Knowledge of budget forecasting and cost control at the site level.
  • Flexibility to work across AM/PM shifts and support weekend or off‑site operations when needed.

Lead the way as our new Operations Manager in Bristol. Step into a key role where you’ll drive performance, lead teams, and shape daily warehouse operations – apply today!

About Company:

We are the UK’s leading delivery management company providing efficient, high‑quality and competitively priced services across Business Mail, Parcels, Fulfilment and Door‑drop media both in the UK and internationally. Distributing more than 4 billion items annually, we are market leaders in Downstream Access Mail (DSA) services handling over 50% of bulk business mail in the UK. We are in the top 100 privately owned companies with 23 locations across the UK. Our success is down to our people and the values we all follow to deliver excellence to our customers. We think as part of a team, act with a can‑do attitude and do the right thing. Following these simple values has resulted in our people delivering and exceeding both our business and personal development goals. We are a ‘family’ of uniquely different people with strengths in the areas we work in and always have the opportunity to be curious to enhance ourselves. We are a disability confident employer and embrace Well Being, EDI and ESG to make ourselves and our environment the best it can be.

Benefits:
  • Annual leave enhanced with long service.
  • Company Pension.
  • Long service rewards: both financial and leave‑based.
  • Health cash plan.
  • Life assurance scheme.
  • Critical Illness cover.
  • Access to our prestige benefits and rewards portal.
  • Career development opportunities.
  • Access to a well‑established Employee Assistance Programme provider.
  • And other excellent benefits you’d expect from a market leader.

Operations Manager in Bristol employer: Whistl UK Ltd

Join a leading delivery management company in Bristol, where your role as Operations Manager will not only drive performance but also foster a supportive and dynamic work culture. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer extensive career development opportunities, competitive benefits, and a focus on well-being and inclusivity, making us an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.

Whistl UK Ltd

Contact Detail:

Whistl UK Ltd Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Bristol

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the logistics industry and let them know you're on the hunt for an Operations Manager role. 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 values and how they align with your leadership style. This will help you showcase your proactive approach and continuous improvement mindset during the interview.

Tip Number 3

Practice your communication skills! As an Operations Manager, you'll need to influence at all levels. Role-play common interview questions with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your responses.

Tip Number 4

Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our dynamic team in Bristol.

We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Bristol

Leadership
Operational Planning
People Management
Performance Management
Communication Skills
Cost Control
Customer Service

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in logistics and people management, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills. We want to see how you’ve driven results in previous roles!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our dynamic team. Share specific examples of how you’ve led teams and improved operations in fast-paced environments. Let your personality come through!

Showcase Your Skills:In your application, make sure to highlight your skills in operational planning, cost control, and compliance. We’re looking for someone who can manage performance and maintain high standards, so give us the details on how you’ve done this before.

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 at StudySmarter!

How to prepare for a job interview at Whistl UK Ltd

Know Your Operations Inside Out

Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of logistics and warehouse operations. Familiarise yourself with key terms like SLA, labour planning, and process optimisation. This will show that you’re not just a leader but someone who understands the nitty-gritty of the role.

Showcase Your Leadership Style

Be ready to discuss your hands-on leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've motivated teams in high-pressure environments. Highlight specific instances where your coaching led to improved performance or efficiency – this is what they want to hear!

Demonstrate Continuous Improvement Mindset

Think of ways you’ve implemented operational improvements in past roles. Be prepared to share your ideas on how to enhance processes and drive results. This shows you’re proactive and always looking for better ways to operate, which is crucial for the role.

Build Rapport with Interviewers

Since communication is key, practice building rapport during the interview. Engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about their operations and challenges. This not only demonstrates your interest but also your ability to connect with stakeholders at all levels.