Distribution Centre Operations Manager
1 day ago
Bradford
Distribution Centre Operations Manager\n\nLocation: Bradford, BD7\n Department: Distribution Centre Operations\n Reports to: Director of Distribution Centre\n Direct Reports: 5 Warehouse Supervisors\n\nSalary & Benefits\n\nCompetitive salary- up to 100K \nCar allowance\nAnnual bonus scheme\nComapny pension and others \nFree car park \n\nThe Role\n\nWe are seeking an experienced and driven Distribution Centre Operations Manager to lead and continuously improve our client warehouse and distribution centre operations. This is a senior operational role with responsibility for people leadership, operational performance, safety, quality, cost control, and continuous improvement across the distribution centre. \nYou will play a critical role in ensuring efficient receiving, storage, order picking, and despatch operations, while developing systems, processes, and teams to deliver best?in?class performance.\n\nWorking Hours\n\n39 hours per week\nMonday to Friday\nFlexible start time between 7:00am and 9:00am, depending on business needs\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\nOperational Leadership\n\nLead, manage, and motivate the Warehouse Operations Team, working closely with Warehouse Supervisors to maximise performance and engagement.\nEnsure effective planning and resource allocation in line with anticipated business volumes and customer demand.\nMaintain safe, efficient, and accurate warehouse operations across receiving, storage, picking, and despatch.\nDemonstrate visible leadership by being present on the warehouse floor, building strong relationships with all levels of staff.\n\nPerformance, Cost & Continuous Improvement\n\nMonitor and control warehouse costs, productivity, and operational KPIs.\nAnalyse working methods, equipment, and systems, recommending improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs.\nPrepare budgets, management reports, and operational statistics as required.\nActively participate in and lead continuous improvement initiatives.\n\nPeople Management\n\nRecruit, train, develop, and appraise staff in line with company policies and employment legislation.\nConduct performance reviews, manage disciplinary and grievance processes, and support colleague development.\nIdentify training needs and ensure teams are well-equipped, skilled, and motivated.\nPlan departmental resources including holidays, overtime, and leave.\n\nHealth, Safety, Quality & Compliance\n\nEnsure a safe working environment at all times, adhering to all Health, Safety, Environmental, and Quality standards.\nAudit and ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and company policies.\nCoordinate visits from regulatory agencies and ensure all reporting requirements are met.\nWork closely with the Quality function to address customer complaints and supplier issues, with a focus on defect prevention.\n\nFacilities & Maintenance Management\n\nTake responsibility for the planning, maintenance, and development of the DC facility and maintenance budget.\nOversee maintenance programs, with a strong focus on preventive and predictive maintenance.\nManage contractors and service providers, approving and evaluating work completed.\nSupervise installation, modernisation, and handover of Material Handling Equipment (MHE).\nMaintain accurate technical documentation, ITM records, and equipment history.\nSupport DC expansion and improvement projects where required.\n\nCollaboration & Communication\n\nBuild excellent working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.\nAttend and contribute to management meetings.\nProactively share information, ideas, and best practices with colleagues.\nSupport the development of peers and cross-functional teams.\n\nAbout You\n\nEssential Experience & Qualifications\n\nMinimum 4 years' management experience within a high-level warehouse or distribution environment.\nProven experience managing large-scale Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and physical infrastructure.\nExcellent written and verbal communication skills in English.\nStrong working knowledge of SAP (Warehouse modules).\nAdvanced skills in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.\n\nDesirable\n\nMaster's degree in a relevant technical or business discipline.\nNEBOSH Certificate or equivalent Health & Safety qualification.\nKnowledge of HR practices and employment law.\nExperience within the automotive sector or high-velocity aftermarket distribution.\n\nPersonal Attributes\n\nResults-focused, organised, and highly motivated.\nCalm under pressure with strong attention to detail.\nDependable, flexible, and professional.\nSelf-directed, conscientious, and a strong team player.\nConfident and persuasive communicator with the ability to influence