Operations Manager

About The Company Our client is a well-established, family-owned distributor supplying high-quality plumbing and drainage products to trade customers across the UK. Renowned for exceptional customer service, reliable deliveries and long-standing customer relationships, they have built a strong reputation by combining operational excellence with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement. The Role Our client is seeking an experienced and driven Operations Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who is passionate about operational excellence, continuous improvement and building high-performing teams. You will take full ownership of our warehouse and transport operations, driving efficiency, accountability and exceptional customer service while supporting the company's future growth. Key Responsibilities • Lead the day-to-day warehouse and transport operation, managing a team of Warehouse Operatives, Delivery Drivers and the company fleet. • Drive operational excellence by improving processes, increasing efficiency and implementing new systems and technologies. • Manage warehouse performance, stock accuracy, inventory control and KPI reporting to ensure operational targets are consistently achieved. • Lead, develop and manage the warehouse team through recruitment, training, performance reviews and disciplinary processes where required. • Oversee transport planning, fleet management and delivery scheduling to maximise productivity and customer service. • Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety legislation, operational procedures and transport regulations. • Take ownership of workforce planning and operational systems, including Connecteam, Sage 200, MaxOptra and future automation projects. • Identify and implement opportunities to reduce costs, improve data accuracy and streamline manual processes using technology and AI where appropriate. • Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, communication and continuous improvement across the operation. • Obtain (or hold) the Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and support the ongoing development of the company's transport function. Essential Experience & Skills • Minimum 5 years' senior warehouse or operations management experience. • Strong warehouse, logistics and transport management background. • Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams. • Excellent knowledge of stock control, warehouse systems and KPI management. • Experience managing rotas, workforce planning and operational scheduling. • Strong understanding of UK Health & Safety legislation. • Experience implementing operational improvements and leading change. • Confident using warehouse and workforce management systems (Connecteam experience desirable). • Excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills. Whats on offer? • Annual performance bonus of up to 10% based on agreed operational KPIs. • Company mobile phone and laptop. • Company pension scheme. • 28 days holiday (including bank holidays), increasing by one day per year (up to 33 days) through the loyalty holiday programme. • Structured salary review after 12 months. • Free on-site parking. This Role May Suit: This role may suit candidates currently working in roles such as: Operations Manager, Warehouse Manager, Logistics Manager, Distribution Manager, Transport Manager, Warehouse & Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Operations Manager, Depot Manager, Fulfilment Manager or Branch Operations Manager. If your experience is aligned with the responsibilities of this role but your current job title differs, we would still encourage you to apply. Diversity & Inclusion At WE Talent, we believe that diverse teams create stronger organisations. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion throughout our recruitment process. Every application is considered fairly, based on the skills, experience and potential needed for the role. We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process where everyone has the opportunity to demonstrate what they can offer. If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today or contact WE Talent for a confidential conversation.