Senior Operations Manager

This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK's leading over-50s age inclusive jobs board.

Job Overview

The Senior Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing large-scale logistics operations, ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of goods across the supply chain. This role is focused on developing strategies to optimise transportation, warehousing, distribution, and inventory management. As a senior leader, the Senior Operations Manager plays a critical role in driving continuous improvement, enhancing service levels, reducing costs, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Why work for LKQ

Here, your work goes beyond just a job. We prioritise our colleagues as the foundation of our success. We foster a friendly and inclusive work environment where everyone can be their best.

Our Colleague Promise is a testament of our commitment to you. We strive to create a fair, inclusive, and high-performing workplace where you can feel motivated, supported, valued, and proud. Work-life balance is important, and we encourage flexibility and a balanced lifestyle.

Our Customer Promise embodies our unwavering dedication to excellence. We commit to being their supportive partner of choice whenever they need us and offering only the highest quality products and services.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive logistics strategies that support business objectives, optimise operational efficiency, and ensure cost-effective movement of goods. Work closely with senior leadership to align logistics operations with long-term business goals.
• Ensure effective management of warehouse operations, including storage, inventory control, and order fulfillment. Develop policies to improve inventory accuracy, reduce shrinkage, and ensure on-time delivery of goods.
• Lead and mentor a team of logistics managers, supervisors, and warehouse staff. Set clear performance goals, provide ongoing coaching, and create opportunities for professional growth to foster a high-performing logistics team.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements and implement initiatives to optimise logistics processes, reduce costs, and enhance overall efficiency. Leverage technology, automation, and data analytics to streamline logistics functions and drive productivity gains.
• Develop, manage, and monitor the logistics budget, ensuring that operational costs are controlled and that the business achieves its financial objectives. Identify areas for cost reduction without sacrificing service levels.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor logistics operations, including metrics related to on-time delivery, transportation costs, inventory turnover, and order accuracy. Prepare and present performance reports to senior management and other stakeholders.
• Develop and manage logistics budgets, ensuring that costs are controlled, and financial targets are met. Identify areas for cost savings and operational improvements without compromising service levels.
• Manage relationships with external suppliers, carriers, and 3PLs to ensure high levels of service and cost-effective logistics solutions. Negotiate contracts, monitor vendor performance, and address any service-related issues
• Ensure that all logistics operations comply with health, safety, and regulatory standards. Promote a culture of safety throughout the organisation, conduct regular safety audits, and implement corrective actions as needed

Skills and Experience

• A degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a relevant experience.
• Proven experience in logistics, supply chain, or operations management, ideally in a senior leadership or managerial capacity.
• Strong understanding of logistics processes, including transportation management, warehouse operations, and inventory control.
• Experience managing third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and carrier relationships.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, with the ability to manage, motivate, and develop large teams.
• Proficiency in using logistics and supply chain management software, warehouse management systems (WMS), and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and best practices in logistics operations.

What we offer

• Competitive salary
• 30 days annual leave (inc. bank holidays)*
• Personal development leading to career opportunities across UK & Europe
• Contributory pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Support through our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family
• Discounted Health Club memberships
• Hospital Plan and Online GP
• Cycle to work scheme
• Online retail discount
• Staff discount

*pro rata for PT colleagues