Warehouse Manager

SF Partners are working with a business based in Newton Abbot, Devon who are looking for a Warehouse Manager to join the team
Must have an Engineering / Manufacturing background
£40,000 - £45,000

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Warehouse Manager to lead our engineering/manufacturing warehouse operation. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the efficient receipt, storage, control and distribution of raw materials, components and finished goods, while driving operational excellence through Lean Manufacturing principles, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives.

This role requires a hands-on leader who can motivate teams, improve warehouse performance, maintain inventory accuracy, and support production through effective material management.

Key Responsibilities
Manage the day-to-day operation of the warehouse, ensuring safety, efficiency and productivity.
Lead and develop warehouse staff through coaching, training and performance management.
Ensure the timely receipt, storage, picking, kitting and dispatch of materials to support manufacturing operations.
Maintain high levels of inventory accuracy through robust stock control processes and regular cycle counts.
Develop and implement warehouse KPIs, monitoring performance and identifying opportunities for improvement.
Drive Lean Manufacturing and Kaizen initiatives to eliminate waste, improve workflows and increase operational efficiency.
Lead continuous improvement projects using Lean tools such as:
5S
Kaizen
Visual Management
Root Cause Analysis
Standard Work
Value Stream Mapping
Optimise warehouse layout and material flow to improve productivity and reduce handling.
Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety legislation and company policies.
Maintain high housekeeping standards throughout the warehouse.
Work closely with Production, Purchasing, Planning and Engineering teams to ensure uninterrupted material availability.
Manage warehouse budgets and control operating costs.
Oversee goods inward inspection and ensure supplier deliveries meet required standards.
Identify and implement warehouse automation or digital improvements where appropriate.
Support ERP/MRP system accuracy through disciplined inventory management.
Manage relationships with transport providers and external logistics partners where required.

Essential Skills & Experience
Proven experience managing a warehouse within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
Strong understanding of manufacturing supply chains and material flow.
Demonstrable experience leading Lean Manufacturing and Kaizen continuous improvement programmes.
Experience implementing 5S and warehouse optimisation projects.
Strong inventory management and stock control experience.
Experience using ERP/MRP systems.
Excellent leadership and people management skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
Experience managing KPIs and delivering measurable operational improvements.
Excellent organisational and planning skills.
Good knowledge of Health & Safety legislation within warehousing and manufacturing.