Head of Warehousing and Distribution

The Head of Warehousing and Distribution role provides an exciting opportunity to join a leading organisation within the FMCG sector.

Client Details

Our client is a leading organisation within the FMCG sector.

Description

The Head of Warehousing and Distribution oversees all warehouse operations including; order fulfilment, inventory management and distribution activities. Based at our clients operation in Essex, the role is responsible for driving operational efficiency, maintaining high levels of quality control and creating a safe, organised and customer-focused logistics environment. Key areas of responsibility will include:

Leadership & Team Management

• Create and lead distribution centre strategies for the warehousing, transport, H&S and facility teams.
• Deliver key strategies, goals and action plans that contribute to the achievement of business objectives within a fast-paced, collaborative and highly complex environment.
• Engage with senior management to deliver strategic business projects.
• Provide coaching and development opportunities to build a high-performing team.
• Promote diversity and inclusion initiatives and support business CSR objectives.

Warehouse Operations & Inventory Management

• Oversee daily warehouse activities including; inbound, outbound, replenishment, picking, packing, kitting and shipping.
• Ensure all products are shipped, handled, stored and packaged according to legislation and company quality standards.
• Develop and maintain warehouse layout and storage systems to maximise efficiency and product protection.

Distribution & Order Fulfilment

• Optimise workflows to meet service-level agreements (SLAs) with retail partners and e-commerce customers.
• Own and lead relationships with Transportation carriers, ensuring best fit cost/service contracts are in place and consistent with business expectations

Budget & Procurement

• Accountable for budget management and control, headcount, temporary labour requirements and direct purchasing for the distribution operation (packaging, accessories, engineering, consumables).

Process Improvement & Compliance

• Identify opportunities to improve warehouse processes, reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency.

Safety & Security

• Foster a culture of behaviour-based safety, quality, accountability and continuous improvement.
• Monitor and maintain safety metrics to ensure safety and wellbeing that is best in class.

Profile

The successful Head of Warehousing and Distribution will live within a commuting distance of our client's operation in Essex and be able to demonstrate the following experience:

• Extensive experience in overseeing omni-channel logistics operations.
• Proven leadership skills, with experience of managing large scale warehouse operations.
• Good commercial skills and previous budget management experience.
• Excellent understanding of inventory control principles, warehouse layout optimisation and e-commerce fulfilment.
• Good communicator with proven change management skills.
• Ability to forge relationships and collaborate with team members at all levels.
• Ability to lead from the front and influence cross-functionally.
• Awareness of latest industry trends, best practices and legislation.
• Passion for CSR and sustainable practices.
• Agile mindset in order to meet operational needs.
• High level of computer literacy and experience of ERP and WMS systems.

Job Offer

A competitive package will be on offer to the successful candidate with a salary ranging from £80,000 to £90,000 per annum. Some of the key additional benefits include:

• Bonus opportunity
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Private healthcare