Job Overview
We are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to join our chemical distribution business as part of a wider team restructure. This is a hands-on leadership role, working alongside our existing Operations Manager, with responsibility for managing and developing a UK operations team while driving process improvement across a broader international function.
Duties
- Lead, manage and develop a UK-based operations team of 8–9, ensuring day-to-day supply chain and logistics operations run smoothly and efficiently.
- Own and improve core operational processes and systems across chemical supply chain and logistics, from goods receipt through to delivery.
- Work alongside the existing Operations Manager as part of a team restructure to align ways of working across the wider function.
- Drive process improvement initiatives across the broader operations team (c.30 staff, including Hamburg), sharing best practice across sites.
- Manage and improve tracking of key operational data, including non-conformance, cost, and logistics/service provider performance.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders (sales, customer service, directors) and external stakeholders (logistics providers, suppliers, customers).
- Mentor and train junior and less experienced team members, building capability and confidence within the team.
- Report on operational performance and improvement initiatives to James and the Directors.
Qualifications & Experience
Must-haves:
- Direct experience working within the chemical distribution industry — transferable experience from other sectors is not suitable for this role.
- Strong working knowledge of chemical supply chain and logistics processes and systems.
- A proactive, hands-on approach, with a track record of taking ownership and using initiative.
- Demonstrated experience managing and improving operational data and processes, e.g. tracking non-conformance, cost, and logistics provider performance.
- Confident managing relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.
- Strong mentoring and training skills, with experience developing junior or less experienced team members.
Nice-to-haves:
- A data-driven approach to operations and decision-making.
- Familiarity with chemical distribution industry terminology, e.g. bulk and packed goods, isotanks, IBCs, demurrage, and service provider management.
Pay: £70,000.00-£80,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
