Our client, based near Saffron Walden, is looking for a proactive Warehouse & Distribution Manager to help drive efficiency and excellence across their warehouse operations. Working Monday - Friday (9.00am - 5.00pm), this is a hands‑on management role overseeing all warehouse and distribution activities in a busy, small‑business, environment. You will lead a small team of picker/packers, ensuring smooth, accurate, and efficient order fulfilment. Key priorities include maintaining stock control, improving systems, upholding safety standards, and fostering a motivated, high‑performing team culture.
Responsibilities will include:
* Daily Operations: Oversee all warehouse activities — goods‑in, storage, picking, packing, and dispatch — ensuring accuracy and on‑time delivery.
* Team Leadership: Manage, train, and motivate a small team of warehouse operatives. Set clear performance standards and lead by example.
* Inventory Control: Maintain accurate stock records, manage replenishment, and ensure effective use of barcoding and inventory systems.
* Process Improvement: Streamline warehouse workflows to boost efficiency, reduce errors, and minimise costs.
* Health, Safety & Fire Compliance: Ensure full compliance with H&S and fire safety regulations. Act as the Warehouse Fire Marshal, conducting regular fire drills, equipment checks, and maintaining evacuation procedures.
* Logistics & Distribution: Coordinate outgoing shipments, liaise with couriers, and ensure cost‑effective, timely delivery to customers.
* Training & Development: Implement structured onboarding and skills training to build capability and consistency across the team.
* Customer Service & Quality: Monitor and reduce customer complaints through root‑cause analysis and continuous improvement.
* Reporting: Provide clear, actionable updates on stock, order flow, and operational performance to senior management.
* Equipment Management: Oversee forklift operations, ensuring safe use and proper maintenance of all warehouse equipment.
Skills & Experience
* Minimum 5 years' experience in warehouse or distribution management.
* Proven success leading small teams in a fast‑moving environment.
* Strong working knowledge of barcoding, stock control, and warehouse management systems.
* Hands‑on leadership style with excellent communication and organisational skills.
* Forklift licence preferred (or willingness to obtain).
* Fire Marshal or Fire Warden training (or willingness to train).
* Sound understanding of health, safety, and fire regulations.
* Practical problem‑solver with a focus on efficiency, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
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