About Us:
Since 1976, Lowden Building Supplies has been a key player in the construction industry, delivering high-quality building materials to projects across London and Essex. Known for our consistent dedication to excellence and our forward-thinking approach, we’ve grown into one of the UK’s most trusted names in the trade.
We are recruiting for a Yard Manager based at our London branch to support the day-to-day running of a busy yard serving trade and retail customers.
Working hours will be 8am - 6pm Monday to Friday and 8am - 12pm Saturday.
Job Description: Yard Manager - Forklift Driver/Operative
Main Responsibilities
- Oversee daily yard operations, organising workflow and delegating tasks to ensure smooth service.
- Coordinate the safe receipt, loading & unloading, quality checking, and tidy storage of materials.
- Prioritise and prepare customer orders for collection and delivery, ensuring accuracy and minimal wait times.
- Provide direct leadership to yard staff, offering clear guidance and hands-on support during busy periods.
- Manage inventory control by conducting routine stock counts and accurately logging damages or discrepancies.
- Supervise the safe loading and securing of transport and customer vehicles in line with safety guidelines.
- Operate plant machinery (e.g., forklifts, telehandlers) safely, strictly in line with training and certifications.
- Assist trade and retail customers directly with loading, product collections, and general enquiries.
- Uphold strict health, safety, and housekeeping standards, including hazard reporting, site cleanliness, and waste management.
- Collaborate with sales, branch, and transport teams to align yard operations with broader delivery targets.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven track record in a builders' merchant, logistics, warehouse, or yard environment (essential).
- Demonstrated experience supervising or leading a small operational team (desirable).
- Working knowledge of building/timber materials, stock control systems, and safe handling practices.
- Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling and active outdoor work throughout the day.
- Valid forklift, counterbalance, or telehandler licence (desirable).
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively under pressure.
- Clear communication skills and a confident, professional approach to customer service.
- Sound numeracy and literacy for completing stock counts, delivery notes, and digital records.
- Uncompromising commitment to health and safety protocols and hazard prevention.
Employee Benefits
- Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£35,000 - £37,000)
- ️ 28 days holiday
- Competitive salary + company pension
- Training, development & genuine career progression
- Supportive, team-focused working environment
- Company discount
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £35,000.00-£37,000.00 per year
Ability to commute/relocate:
- London E7 0EB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Management: 2 years (preferred)
- Mechanical knowledge: 1 year (preferred)
- Reach truck: 2 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Forklift License (required)
Work Location: In person
