Distribution Centre Operations Manager

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 dispatch 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 dispatch.
• 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.