Job Overview
Christie-Elite Nurseries is a leading supplier of high-quality trees and plants for forestry, landscaping, and conservation across the UK. We are looking for a highly organised and motivated Dispatch Manager to lead our dispatch, delivery, and cold store operations in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
The Role
As Dispatch Manager, you will oversee all aspects of dispatch, delivery, and cold store logistics. You will ensure that stock is stored, handled, and delivered efficiently, while maintaining the highest standards of quality, health & safety, and customer satisfaction. This is a varied role, combining team leadership, hands-on stock management, and cross-department collaboration. During off-peak periods, you will also support wider nursery operations.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage daily operations in dispatch, delivery, and cold store.
* Lead, supervise, and motivate a team of drivers and operatives.
* Organise rotas, allocate tasks, and monitor team performance.
* Liaise with sales and admin to align dispatch schedules with customer orders.
* Monitor and manage stock levels, ensuring accuracy, product health, and rotation.
* Maintain cold store facilities to required standards of temperature, cleanliness, and biosecurity.
* Safely operate forklifts and support the team in handling stock.
* Deliver training, toolbox talks, and team meetings to drive safety and efficiency.
* Report regularly on stock, performance, and operational effectiveness.
* Support wider nursery tasks during off-peak times.
* Ensure adherence to the Company's Health and Safety Policy
* Ensure Standards are maintained by strict adherence to the Company's Integrated Management System
Skills
* Proven experience in stock management, ideally within forestry, horticulture, agriculture, or a related environment.
* Forestry-related training or qualifications (desirable).
* Valid forklift licence.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to develop and motivate a team.
* Excellent organisational, communication, and teamwork skills.
* Sound knowledge of Health & Safety standards and stock handling practices.
* Flexible and willing to support wider nursery operations when required.
* PA1/PA6 desirable but not essential.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary (in line with experience).
* Full training and support, with opportunities for professional development.
* A leadership role in a respected and growing forestry business.
* The chance to make a real impact on customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £13.00-£15.00 per hour
Expected hours: 39 per week
Benefits:
* Company pension
* On-site parking
Experience:
* Forestry: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
* Forklift Licence (required)
Work Location: In person