Distribution Centre Operations Manager
Location: Bradford, BD7
Department: Distribution Centre Operations
Reports to: Director of Distribution Centre
Direct Reports: 5 Warehouse Supervisors
Salary & Benefits
* Competitive salary - up to 100K
* Car allowance
* Annual bonus scheme
* Company pension and others
* Free car park
The Role
We are seeking an experienced and driven Distribution Centre Operations Manager to lead and continuously improve our client warehouse and distribution centre operations. This is a senior operational role with responsibility for people leadership, operational performance, safety, quality, cost control, and continuous improvement across the distribution centre.
You will play a critical role in ensuring efficient receiving, storage, order picking, and despatch operations, while developing systems, processes, and teams to deliver best?in?class performance.
Working Hours
* 39 hours per week
* Monday to Friday
* Flexible start time between 7:00am and 9:00am, depending on business needs
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
* Lead, manage, and motivate the Warehouse Operations Team, working closely with Warehouse Supervisors to maximise performance and engagement.
* Ensure effective planning and resource allocation in line with anticipated business volumes and customer demand.
* Maintain safe, efficient, and accurate warehouse operations across receiving, storage, picking, and despatch.
* Demonstrate visible leadership by being present on the warehouse floor, building strong relationships with all levels of staff.
Performance, Cost & Continuous Improvement
* Monitor and control warehouse costs, productivity, and operational KPIs.
* Analyse working methods, equipment, and systems, recommending improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
* Prepare budgets, management reports, and operational statistics as required.
* Actively participate in and lead continuous improvement initiatives.
People Management
* Recruit, train, develop, and appraise staff in line with company policies and employment legislation.
* Conduct performance reviews, manage disciplinary and grievance processes, and support colleague development.
* Identify training needs and ensure teams are well-equipped, skilled, and motivated.
* Plan departmental resources including holidays, overtime, and leave.
Health, Safety, Quality & Compliance
* Ensure a safe working environment at all times, adhering to all Health, Safety, Environmental, and Quality standards.
* Audit and ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and company policies.
* Coordinate visits from regulatory agencies and ensure all reporting requirements are met.
* Work closely with the Quality function to address customer complaints and supplier issues, with a focus on defect prevention.
Facilities & Maintenance Management
* Take responsibility for the planning, maintenance, and development of the DC facility and maintenance budget.
* Oversee maintenance programs, with a strong focus on preventive and predictive maintenance.
* Manage contractors and service providers, approving and evaluating work completed.
* Supervise installation, modernisation, and handover of Material Handling Equipment (MHE).
* Maintain accurate technical documentation, ITM records, and equipment history.
* Support DC expansion and improvement projects where required.
Collaboration & Communication
* Build excellent working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
* Attend and contribute to management meetings.
* Proactively share information, ideas, and best practices with colleagues.
* Support the development of peers and cross-functional teams.
About You
Essential Experience & Qualifications
* Minimum 4 years' management experience within a high-level warehouse or distribution environment.
* Proven experience managing large-scale Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and physical infrastructure.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
* Strong working knowledge of SAP (Warehouse modules).
* Advanced skills in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Desirable
* Master's degree in a relevant technical or business discipline.
* NEBOSH Certificate or equivalent Health & Safety qualification.
* Knowledge of HR practices and employment law.
* Experience within the automotive sector or high-velocity aftermarket distribution.
Personal Attributes
* Results-focused, organised, and highly motivated.
* Calm under pressure with strong attention to detail.
* Dependable, flexible, and professional.
* Self-directed, conscientious, and a strong team player.
* Confident and persuasive communicator with the ability to influence
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