Operations Manager

Operations Manager – Basildon
Salary Cric £50-60K + 10% bonus
23 Days holiday + BH
Hours 7am – 4pm Mon – Fri
Free parking
Pension with Life Insurance
Health care
Paid volunteer days
Perk Box discounts
 

We are looking for an experienced, hands-on Operations Manager to lead our busy pallet network operation. The successful candidate will hold a valid CPC qualification and have strong transport compliance, health & safety, and people management experience.

Responsible for the day-to-day running of the transport and warehouse operation, you will lead a team of 20 HGV drivers and 45 operational staff, ensure the safe, efficient, and profitable delivery of services while maintaining high customer service standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage transport and warehouse operations within a pallet network environment.
• Hold responsibility for Operator Licence compliance, drivers' hours, tachographs, vehicle maintenance, and transport legislation.
• Promote and maintain a strong health & safety culture across the site.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of 20 HGV drivers and 45 operational staff.
• Take ownership of operational budgets and P&L performance.
• Drive operational efficiency, productivity, and continuous improvement.
• Monitor KPIs and implement corrective actions where required.
• Ensure service levels, customer expectations, and business objectives are consistently achieved.
• Lead from the front with a hands-on approach and willingness to support operational activities when needed.

Skills & Experience

• CPC qualified (essential).
• Proven experience in transport, logistics, or pallet network operations.
• Strong knowledge of transport compliance and health & safety legislation.
• Experience managing large operational teams.
• Demonstrable P&L and budget management experience.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• Commercially aware with a focus on performance and continuous improvement.

Personal Attributes

• Strong leader who leads by example.
• Hands-on and willing to "get stuck in" when required.
• Positive, resilient, and results driven.
• Able to build high-performing teams and drive accountability.
• Committed to delivering operational excellence, safety, and customer satisfaction.