Operations Manager
Main Purpose of the Role
Working alongside the Depot Manager, the Operations Manager is responsible for assisting in the overall leadership and performance of the depot, ensuring the effective management of labour, productivity, quality, and safety across all operational areas. You will assist in overseeing the site through robust operating plans, procedures, and KPIs, ensuring consistent delivery of service excellence. This role requires strong leadership, operational expertise, and a continuous improvement mindset to drive efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & People Management alongside the Depot Manager
- Lead, inspire, and develop the operations team, setting clear objectives, priorities, and performance measures.
- Create a high‑performing, motivated workforce through effective coaching, communication, and engagement.
- Recruit, select, train, schedule, coach, and develop employees at all levels.
- Conduct performance reviews, manage corrective actions, and address personnel issues in line with company policy.
- Ensure all employees represent the company professionally in appearance, behaviour, and quality of work.
Operational Excellence
- Ensure all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are consistently followed across all departments.
- Manage daily operations across the warehouse and wash line, ensuring timely and high‑quality product delivery.
- Drive performance against operating plans, budgets, SLAs, and KPIs.
- Maintain a safe, organised, and legally compliant depot environment.
- Oversee driver operations, ensuring compliance with transport policies and vehicle maintenance standards.
Continuous Improvement & Risk Management
- Deliver a continuous improvement agenda, identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, service delivery, and customer experience.
- Explore new technologies and processes to improve operational performance.
- Proactively identify risks and implement robust mitigation plans.
- Ensure all audit actions (ISO, IIP, H&S) are completed and fully compliant.
Customer & Stakeholder Management
- Handle customer queries and complaints in line with KPIs, ensuring timely communication with Teacrate customer care teams.
- Communicate the company vision, strategy, and priorities to all colleagues, ensuring alignment and engagement.
- Provide operational insights and recommendations to support strategic planning and business growth.
Financial & Resource Management alongside the Depot Manager
- Contribute to the creation of the depot budget and control annual costs.
- Monitor and report projected overspend, ensuring financial targets are met.
- Deliver and manage recruitment plans aligned with anticipated revenue and operational needs.
- Analyse operational data, identify trends, and implement actions to improve productivity, quality, and customer service.
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven experience managing staff at all levels.
- Experience in a crate wash, warehouse, or production environment (advantageous).
- Strong leadership and coaching skills with the ability to motivate and influence teams.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage individuals and groups.
- Methodical, practical, and logical approach to problem‑solving.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to drive outcomes and challenge existing practices.
- Experience managing budgets and controlling operational costs.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure with a high level of commitment.
- Proficient in Microsoft applications and able to learn new systems quickly.