UK Operations Manager

Are you a results-oriented leader who is highly organised, commercially astute, and meticulous about quality? Do you possess the technical depth to manage a complex perishable supply chain and the confidence to establish and grow a new operation from the ground up? Crucially, do you lead by example, a naturally relaxed and open-minded>, and a highly visible presence among your team, driving the operational excellence?

We are a highly successful European leader in the horticultural supply chain, known for connecting high-quality plants and products with major retailers across the continent. As we embark on a strategic expansion into the UK, we aren't just looking for an employee, we are looking for a leader.

This is a pivotal, hands-on role for an operational architect. You will be our figurehead operational representative on the ground in the UK, tasked with taking our proven European model and establishing a robust, scalable presence. If you have the ambition to lead an operation that aims to double its client base in the next 3-5 years, I want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership & Setup

• Establishment: Lead the operational setup of the new UK entity, including initial site selection, logistics partner onboarding, and process implementation in coordination with the Group Head Office.
• End-to-End Management: Oversee all UK logistics, warehousing, inventory control, and distribution activities to ensure on-time delivery and product quality.
• Scalability: Implement operations and infrastructure that are robust and scalable to support the company's objective of doubling the UK client base over the next 3-5 years.

Quality, Compliance & Audit Management

• Technical Expertise: Serve as the technical authority on the handling, storage, and quality assurance of fresh produce/horticultural products.
• Commercial Compliance: Prepare for and successfully manage rigorous commercial audits required by key UK retail partners, including major supermarkets and garden centre chains.

Team Leadership & Cultural Presence

• Visible Leadership: Be a hands-on, present leader who actively engages with and supports the growing UK operational team (once hired).
• Culture Building: Foster a relaxed, open-minded, and collaborative team culture that encourages feedback, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Empowerment: Delegate effectively and empower team members, promoting accountability and professional development.

Cross-Border Coordination & Communication

• Head Office Liaison: Act as the primary operational interface between the UK entity and the Head Office in the Netherlands, ensuring alignment on strategy, reporting, and operational performance.
• Travel: Attend mandatory quarterly trips to the European Head Office in the Netherlands for strategy, reporting, and team meetings.
• Autonomy: Successfully manage the UK operations independently, demonstrating high levels of confidence, initiative, and self-motivation while working autonomously.

Required Skills & Experience

• Experience: Proven track record of at least 3-5 years in an Operations Management role within a fast-paced environment.
• Sector Expertise (Non-Negotiable): Essential technical knowledge and experience operating within the Fresh Produce or Horticulture supply chain sector.
• Commercial Audit Proficiency: Demonstrable experience in preparing for and successfully passing commercial audits from major UK retailers (e.g., Tesco, large garden centre groups).
• Leadership Style: Evidence of successful team leadership, characterised by a present, engaging, and approachable demeanour.
• Strategic Planning: Experience designing and implementing operational strategies that support significant business growth (e.g., managing a client base expansion).
• Travel: Flexibility and willingness to undertake mandatory quarterly travel to the Netherlands.