Our client is a specialist UK logistics provider with over 30 years’ experience delivering high‑consequence cargo including government, defence, nuclear, medical, and high‑value shipments by road, air and sea, supported by accredited secure warehousing and screening services. As a Regulated Agent and member of IATA, BIFA, FTA and FIATA, they deliver excellence through integrity, adaptability, strategic focus and strict compliance.
Continued growth has created the immediate need for an Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day running of secure delivery operations and multiple off-site screening/storage facilities. This is a critical leadership role, ensuring safe, compliant, and high-performance logistics operations that uphold the highest standards of security and customer service.
The successful candidate will be a strong, hands-on leader with excellent logistics knowledge, people management skills, and a track record of running complex, secure operations.
Responsibilities:
Leadership and Team Management
* Lead and develop a multi-disciplinary team of logistics staff, drivers, warehouse operatives and screening personnel across multiple locations.
* Set clear expectations, coach performance, manage conduct and drive engagement and accountability.
* Foster a culture of professionalism, respect and excellence across all shifts.
Logistics Operations
* Manage secure inbound and outbound logistics flows, ensuring parcels and freight are screened, processed, stored and dispatched efficiently.
* Oversee daily vehicle routing, loading, documentation and delivery performance.
* Ensure same-day and next-day requirements are consistently met or exceeded.
* Manage emergency procedures
Security & Screening
* Ensure all freight entering or exiting sites is screened to agreed protocols, including X-ray screening, visual checks and tamper control.
* Enforce strict access controls, visitor protocols and staff vetting processes.
* Maintain physical security integrity of all sites including CCTV, alarms and barrier systems.
* Respond rapidly and effectively to potential threats, suspicious items or emergency scenarios in line with CTS security procedures.
Safety, Compliance & Quality
* Ensure full compliance with required regulations
* Conduct regular toolbox talks, risk assessments, inspections and safety briefings.
* Act as the site lead for audits, incidents, investigations and customer inspections.
* Maintain all operational documentation and reporting to a high standard.
Customer Service
* Be the primary point of operational contact for customers and internal stakeholders.
* Ensure all services are delivered professionally, securely and on time.
* Lead service recovery and communication in the event of delays, security holds or disruptions.
* Ensure clear control and command of communication flows
Performance Management and KPIs
* Take ownership of key operational KPIs, including:
* Screening turnaround times
* Delivery OTIF (On Time In Full)
* Health & Safety incident rates
* Audit and inspection readiness
* Staff compliance (training, vetting, documentation)
Experience Required:
Essential
Proven experience as an Operations, Logistics or Site Manager in a fast-paced, security-conscious environment.
Strong working knowledge of secure freight handling, parcel processing and screening controls.
Excellent people leadership, coaching and performance management skills.
Confident in managing compliance, security, Health and Safety, investigations and process improvement.
Highly organised, responsive and professional in stakeholder and customer interactions.
Desirable
Experience in government, defence or regulated high-security logistics.
Knowledge of X-ray screening systems and screening protocols (or willingness to train).
Familiarity with ISO standards and audit environments.
Current SC or DV clearance (or ability to obtain)