Distribution Centre Operations Manager
Location: Bradford, BD7
Department: Distribution Centre Operations
Reports to: Director of Distribution Centre
Direct Reports: 5 Warehouse Supervisors
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive salary- up to 100K
- Car allowance
- Annual bonus scheme
- Company pension and others
- Free car park
The Role
We 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. You will play a critical role in ensuring efficient receiving, storage, order picking, and dispatch operations, while developing systems, processes, and teams to deliver best‑in‑class performance.
Working Hours
- 39 hours per week
- Monday to Friday
- Flexible start time between 7:00am and 9:00am, depending on business needs
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Lead, manage, and motivate the Warehouse Operations Team, working closely with Warehouse Supervisors to maximise performance and engagement.
- Ensure effective planning and resource allocation in line with anticipated business volumes and customer demand.
- Maintain safe, efficient, and accurate warehouse operations across receiving, storage, picking, and dispatch.
- Demonstrate visible leadership by being present on the warehouse floor, building strong relationships with all levels of staff.
Performance, Cost & Continuous Improvement
- Monitor and control warehouse costs, productivity, and operational KPIs.
- Analyse working methods, equipment, and systems, recommending improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
- Prepare budgets, management reports, and operational statistics as required.
- Actively participate in and lead continuous improvement initiatives.
People Management
- Recruit, train, develop, and appraise staff in line with company policies and employment legislation.
- Conduct performance reviews, manage disciplinary and grievance processes, and support colleague development.
- Identify training needs and ensure teams are well‑equipped, skilled, and motivated.
- Plan departmental resources including holidays, overtime, and leave.
Health, Safety, Quality & Compliance
- Ensure a safe working environment at all times, adhering to all Health, Safety, Environmental, and Quality standards.
- Audit and ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and company policies.
- Coordinate visits from regulatory agencies and ensure all reporting requirements are met.
- Work closely with the Quality function to address customer complaints and supplier issues, with a focus on defect prevention.
Facilities & Maintenance Management
- Take responsibility for the planning, maintenance, and development of the DC facility and maintenance budget.
- Oversee maintenance programs, with a strong focus on preventive and predictive maintenance.
- Manage contractors and service providers, approving and evaluating work completed.
- Supervise installation, modernisation, and handover of Material Handling Equipment (MHE).
- Maintain accurate technical documentation, ITM records, and equipment history.
- Support DC expansion and improvement projects where required.
Collaboration & Communication
- Build excellent working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Attend and contribute to management meetings.
- Proactively share information, ideas, and best practices with colleagues.
- Support the development of peers and cross‑functional teams.
About You
Essential Experience & Qualifications
- Minimum 4 years' management experience within a high-level warehouse or distribution environment.
- Proven experience managing large-scale Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and physical infrastructure.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Strong working knowledge of SAP (Warehouse modules).
- Advanced skills in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Desirable
- Master's degree in a relevant technical or business discipline.
- NEBOSH Certificate or equivalent Health & Safety qualification.
- Knowledge of HR practices and employment law.
- Experience within the automotive sector or high‑velocity aftermarket distribution.
Personal Attributes
- Results‑focused, organised, and highly motivated.
- Calm under pressure with strong attention to detail.
- Dependable, flexible, and professional.
- Self‑directed, conscientious, and a strong team player.
- Confident and persuasive communicator with the ability to influence.
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