Job Description
Storage & Distribution Operations Manager
Location: Heathrow (LHR), Hounslow, UK
Sector: Engineering / Supply Chain / Logistics
Employment Type: Full Time
Overview
Our client, a major global aviation organisation, operates a high-volume, 24/7 engineering and logistics environment supporting aircraft maintenance across an international network. Their Storage & Distribution function is the critical bridge between Supply Chain and Engineering, responsible for the safe, compliant, and timely movement of approximately 700,000 parts per year.
They are seeking a Storage & Distribution Operations Manager to lead multi-site engineering stores operations, oversee the secure handling of high-value aircraft parts and tooling, and drive a transformation programme focused on capacity, technology, and continuous improvement.
This is a leadership role at the heart of engineering operations—ideal for someone who can inspire teams, embed accountability, and deliver operational excellence in a highly regulated environment.
What You’ll Do
Operational Leadership
* Lead Storage & Distribution operations across multiple facilities, ensuring the efficient receipt, storage, and issue of aircraft parts and tooling.
* Support a 24/7/365 operation with a team of 50 colleagues across four shifts, each overseen by an experienced supervisor.
* Ensure the timely and compliant flow of materials required for global aircraft maintenance activities.
People & Performance Management
* Set clear direction, objectives, and performance expectations for operational teams.
* Build engagement and capability by role-modelling strong leadership behaviours.
* Maintain open, transparent relationships with trade union representatives.
Compliance & Regulation
* Ensure strict adherence to Health & Safety, Airworthiness regulations, Quality standards, Customs requirements, Competition Law, Waste Management, and Environmental legislation.
* Oversee compliant storage and transport of aircraft tools and components.
* Guarantee accurate inventory auditing and cost-control in line with finance requirements.
Stakeholder & Process Management
* Report operational performance to senior Supply Chain stakeholders.
* Manage tooling control across engineering hangars at LHR.
* Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to maintain service delivery.
* Deliver improvement initiatives that enhance workflow, capability, and operational efficiency.
Transformation & Continuous Improvement
* Help rebuild team capacity and embed new technology and process changes.
* Encourage colleagues to contribute ideas and participate in shaping improved ways of working.
* Develop a learning-focused environment with strong coaching, training, and talent development pathways.
What You’ll Bring
* Proven leadership experience managing operational teams.
* Strong people management, coaching, communication, and interpersonal skills.
* Ability to define and deliver strategic direction for teams and departments.
* Confidence influencing and negotiating across multiple levels and functions.
* Experience balancing performance across cost, quality, delivery, and people metrics.
* Ability to thrive under pressure and manage complex operational scenarios.
* Strong financial awareness and ability to manage budget-related responsibilities.
* Commitment to building a culture of continuous improvement and operational discipline.
Desirable Experience & Qualifications
* HND-level education or equivalent experience.
* Qualifications in supply chain, logistics, or inventory management.
* Understanding of engineering operations and interdependencies between functional areas.
* Awareness of regulatory requirements related to aircraft components and tool control.
What Our Client Offers
* Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
* Travel-related benefits and global mobility support.
* A culture of continuous learning, development, and career progression.
* Opportunities to contribute to large-scale transformation across a major aviation organisation.
* An inclusive working environment where individuality, innovation, and collaboration are valued.
Inclusion & Diversity
Our client is dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to be themselves. They welcome talent from all backgrounds and are committed to accessible, equitable, and inclusive recruitment and progression.