Job Title: Operations Manager
Department: Operations & Logistics Department
Location: Bristol
Contract Type: Full-time / Permanent
Salary Range: £40,000 - £45,000 per annum
Job Purpose
The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all warehouse and port operations at Bristol Port, managing the complete supply chain process from vessel discharge to customer delivery. This role ensures efficient operations, regulatory compliance, and maintains the highest standards of health and safety while supervising warehouse staff and coordinating with port authorities. The Operations Manager serves as the UK's primary liaison with Bristol Port and acts as the company's Health & Safety Executive for UK operations.
Key Responsibilities
1. Warehouse & Port Operations Management
Oversee the complete operational cycle from vessel unloading, warehouse stocking, to lorry loading for customer deliveries
Coordinate vessel discharge operations ensuring efficient turnaround times and minimal demurrage costs
Manage inventory levels and stock rotation to optimise warehouse capacity and material quality
Plan and schedule loading operations to meet customer delivery requirements and maintain service levels
Monitor operational KPIs including throughput, efficiency, and customer satisfaction metrics
Coordinate with shipping agents, port authorities, and transport providers to ensure smooth operations
2. Port Liaison & Compliance
Act as a primary liaison with Bristol Port Authority
Ensure full compliance with all port rules, regulations, and operational procedures
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of port policies and communicate changes to relevant stakeholders
Coordinate with port services including pilotage, stevedoring, and terminal operations
Manage port documentation, permits, and regulatory submissions
Handle port-related incidents and maintain positive working relationships with port officials
3. Health & Safety Executive Responsibilities
Act as a Health & Safety Executive, ensuring compliance with all UK health and safety legislation
Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)
Conduct regular safety inspections and audits of warehouse and operational areas
Promote and maintain a positive safety culture throughout the organisation
Investigate accidents and incidents, implementing corrective actions and preventive measures
Deliver safety training and inductions to all staff and contractors
Liaise with external safety consultants and regulatory bodies as required
4. Team Leadership & Staff Management
Manage and supervise warehouse staff including permanent employees and agency workers
Oversee forklift operators and other warehouse personnel, ensuring adequate staffing levels
Conduct performance reviews, provide coaching, and identify training needs
Coordinate with recruitment agencies for temporary staffing requirements
Ensure all staff maintain appropriate certifications and competencies
Foster a collaborative and productive working environment
5. Equipment & Asset Management
Maintain all warehouse equipment including forklifts, conveyor systems, and handling equipment
Ensure equipment is fit for purpose and complies with safety standards
Coordinate maintenance schedules and manage relationships with service providers
Monitor equipment performance and plan for replacements or upgrades
Manage equipment inspection records and certification requirements
6. Compliance & Professional Conduct
Comply with all applicable laws, regulations and sanctions relating to anti-bribery and anti-corruption
Adhere to company anti-corruption and bribery policies and related procedures
Report any wrongdoing or improper conduct immediately upon awareness
Liaise with external contractors and port authorities professionally and ethically
Ensure environmental compliance and sustainable operational practices
Key Skills & Experience
Proven experience in warehouse and logistics operations management
Strong leadership and people management capabilities
Excellent organisational and operational planning skills
Knowledge of UK health and safety legislation and compliance requirements
In-depth knowledge of health and safety regulations and RAMS development
Understanding of materials handling for cement, concrete, and building materials
Problem-solving abilities and capacity to work under pressure
Effective communication and stakeholder management skills
Proficiency with warehouse management systems and operational software
Ability to work flexible hours to accommodate vessel schedules and operational demands
Experience in port operations or maritime logistics (preferred)
Qualifications
Degree in Operations Management, Logistics, Engineering, or equivalent work experience
NEBOSH certification or equivalent health and safety qualification required
Forklift Operator Certification