Warehouse Lead Operations Manager

Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Warehouse Operations Lead to join our team. In this pivotal role, you will lead the warehouse department, driving operational excellence, fostering team engagement, and representing the department both internally and to our customers. You will collaborate closely with the Transport Operational Lead, senior managers, and key stakeholders to ensure seamless operations and continuous improvement.

You will have direct responsibility for the warehouse operation, managing a team of Operations Managers and supporting shift operations as needed. Flexibility in working hours is essential, as shift patterns may vary based on departmental needs. You will report to the Assistant General Manager (AGM) for Operations and have three direct reports.

You will be working any 5 days out of 7.

The Role

• Act as a role model, consistently demonstrating our core values of respect, trust, and integrity.
• Maintain a strong presence on the floor, engaging with operational teams at all levels.
• Champion change and innovation, continuously seeking ways to improve processes.
• Lead with positivity, resilience, and high energy, setting and upholding high standards.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and colleague engagement across the Fulfilment Centre.
• Deputise for the AGM when required.
• Ensure consistent and high-quality operational execution.
• Achieve and exceed operational objectives, KPIs, and budgetary targets.
• Support the delivery of a circa £35 million operational budget.
• Drive improvements across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and People.
• Communicate strategic direction clearly to ensure alignment across teams.
• Contribute to the growth and scalability of the Customer Fulfilment Centre (CFC).
• Lead cost-saving initiatives and productivity improvements through your team.
• Serve as Duty Manager on a rotating basis, covering 24/7 operations.
  
  

What Will You Bring

• Strong technical acumen with confidence in using data and technology.
• Extensive experience in operational and people management within large-scale FMCG environments.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Flexibility, resilience, and the ability to manage shifting priorities under pressure.
• Practical experience in continuous improvement methodologies, ideally Lean.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Commercial awareness and a proactive, inquisitive mindset.
  
  

Our Culture & Benefits

In addition to generous remuneration, we really value our people and offer a friendly, safety-first working environment, along with other benefits including company pension scheme, generous holidays, cycle to work scheme, employee benefits include, online discount platform, onsite parking and much more.

Our people are at the core of our business and what makes Wincanton great. That’s why we also provide significant opportunities for career development and progression, as well as training enrichment and multi-skilling, in a dynamic working environment.

Be a part of our values; We’re Thoughtful, We’re Aiming High and We’re Prepared.

Our Commitment

We are committed to providing equality of opportunity for all employees. We strive for an environment where all colleagues feel included, supported and valued, whilst feeling they can be their whole selves within our workplaces. We are proud that our colleagues represent us and our successes and we welcome your application.

Find out more: Wincanton champions a diverse workforce