Head of depot operations transport & warehouse
2 days ago
Sunbury-on-Thames
We are currently recruiting on behalf of our client for an experienced Head of Depot Operations to take full responsibility for the day-to-day management and strategic development of their Ashford depot, overseeing warehouse, transport and general depot operations. \n Reporting to the Country Manager, the successful candidate will play a key role in driving operational efficiency, continuous improvement and service excellence, ensuring all activities are carried out safely, efficiently and in line with customer requirements and business objectives. \n Working closely with the Transport Office Supervisor, Warehouse Manager and wider management team, you will lead and develop the operational workforce, manage resources, monitor performance and ensure the depot consistently achieves its operational and commercial targets. \n Key Responsibilities \n\n • Oversee all day-to-day warehouse, transport and depot operations, ensuring efficient and compliant working practices.\n, • Lead and motivate the operational management team and workforce, maximising productivity and resource utilisation.\n, • Drive continuous improvement initiatives across warehouse workflows, transport planning and depot processes.\n, • Monitor operational costs, vehicle productivity, staff performance and fleet efficiency, identifying opportunities for improvement.\n, • Ensure full compliance with Operator Licence requirements, transport legislation, DVSA regulations and health and safety standards.\n, • Manage fleet investment, vehicle procurement and replacement planning, including preparing investment proposals.\n, • Oversee depot facilities, building maintenance, security systems, equipment and external maintenance suppliers.\n, • Ensure effective staff recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management and development.\n, • Manage staff attendance, absence, holiday planning and HR matters in conjunction with HR.\n, • Monitor and report on operational KPIs, completing weekly and monthly performance reports and quarterly depot audits.\n, • Ensure warehouse stock integrity, accurate stock movements, cycle counts and inventory checks.\n, • Oversee vehicle and equipment inspections, LOLER testing, forklift truck licensing and maintenance records.\n, • Manage external transport partners, including onboarding, performance reviews, service quality, costs and compliance.\n, • Ensure appropriate waste management, depot housekeeping and safe use of vehicles, machinery and equipment.\n, • Work closely with internal departments to support new business implementation, operational planning and seasonal peaks.\n, • Maintain strong relationships with customers and internal stakeholders, ensuring service levels and SLAs are consistently achieved.\n, • Support internal and external audits, including FORS accreditation and HSEQ compliance.\n, • Attend and lead operational meetings, ensuring effective communication and implementation of process changes across the depot.\n\n Skills & Experience Required \n\n • A minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar senior operational management role within transport, logistics or warehousing.\n, • Proven experience managing warehouse and transport operations, ideally within the specialist or high-tech logistics sector.\n, • Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing, recruiting, motivating and developing operational teams.\n, • A proven ability to drive operational improvements and increase efficiency and productivity.\n, • Strong commercial awareness, including budget management, cost control and investment planning.\n, • Sound knowledge of transport legislation, Operator Licence requirements and DVSA compliance.\n, • Experience of fleet procurement, vehicle maintenance and replacement planning.\n, • Knowledge of FORS accreditation and maintaining compliance standards.\n, • Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret operational data, monitor KPIs and identify performance trends.\n, • Strong planning, organisational and problem-solving abilities.\n, • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.\n, • Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel.\n, • Ability to work independently, make commercial decisions and operate effectively as part of a wider management team.\n\n