About Us
Cellar Drinks Company is a growing drinks distributor, catering specifically to the licensed trade. Renowned for its exceptional service and diverse product range, the company has built a strong reputation in the industry. As we scale, we are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to take full ownership of our warehouse and transport functions, ensuring best-in-class operations, compliance, and team performance. Cellar Drinks Company values a collaborative approach within its team, driving continuous growth and operational excellence.
Role Overview
This is a senior, hands-on leadership role responsible for the full operational management of our new warehouse facility from September 2026. The role will incorporate all transport and distribution activities. You will oversee everything from warehouse layout and stock control to fleet compliance, route planning, and team leadership.
You will ensure the business operates safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with all relevant regulations, including Health & Safety and Restricted Operator Licence requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Warehouse Operations
- Full responsibility for day-to-day warehouse operations (goods in/out, picking, packing, dispatch)
- Optimise warehouse layout, space utilisation, and workflow efficiency
- Implement and maintain robust stock control procedures, including cycle counts and stock audits
- Minimise stock loss, damage, and discrepancies
- Ensure accurate inventory management and reporting
- Oversee goods receipt processes, supplier deliveries, and quality checks
Transport & Fleet Management
- Plan and manage all delivery routes and schedules to maximise efficiency and customer satisfaction
- Manage vehicle utilisation, maintenance schedules, MOTs, servicing, and defect reporting
- Ensure compliance with all Restricted Operator Licence obligations
- Monitor driver performance, tachograph records, and working time compliance
- Manage fuel usage, vehicle costs, and route optimisation
- Act as the main point of contact for transport compliance and audits
Team Leadership & People Management
- Lead, manage, and develop warehouse and driver teams
- Create and manage rotas, ensuring adequate staffing at all times
- Manage holidays, sickness, absence, and disciplinary processes
- Recruit, onboard, and train new staff
- Set clear performance expectations and KPIs
- Build a strong, accountable, and safety-first team culture
Health & Safety & Compliance
- Take full ownership of Health & Safety across warehouse and transport operations
- Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation (including manual handling, fire safety, vehicle safety, etc.)
- Conduct risk assessments, toolbox talks, and regular safety audits
- Maintain accident/incident reporting systems and lead investigations
- Ensure safe systems of work are implemented and followed
- Keep all compliance documentation up to date and audit-ready
Customer Service & Delivery Performance
- Ensure all deliveries are completed on time and in full
- Handle escalations relating to delivery issues or service failures
- Continuously improve delivery performance and customer satisfaction
- Maintain strong communication between warehouse, drivers, and office teams
Operational Strategy & Continuous Improvement
- Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs
- Monitor and report on KPIs (e.g. picking accuracy, delivery performance, cost per drop)
- Support business growth by scaling operations effectively
- Lead projects such as warehouse expansion, system upgrades, or fleet improvements
Financial & Cost Control
- Manage operational budgets including staffing, fleet, and warehouse costs
- Monitor labour efficiency and overtime
- Control costs relating to fuel, maintenance, and third-party services
- Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising service or safety
Requirements
Essential
- Proven experience in a senior warehouse/operations/transport management role
- Strong knowledge of warehouse operations and logistics/distribution
- Experience managing transport operations and fleet compliance
- Hands-on experience with Restricted Operator Licence requirements
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations and a commitment to workplace compliance and safety standards.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff effectively.
- Excellent organisational, leadership, and problem-solving skills
Desirable
- Experience within drinks distribution or wholesale
- Knowledge of tachograph regulations and driver hours
- Experience with WMS or logistics software
- Transport Manager CPC (or working towards it)
Personal Attributes
- Hands-on leader who leads from the front
- Highly organised and detail-oriented
- Commercially aware with a focus on efficiency and cost control
- Calm under pressure with strong decision-making ability
- Driven to improve systems, processes, and team performance
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Key leadership role in a growing business
- Opportunity to shape and improve operations
- Supportive and ambitious team environment
Pay: £40,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
