First Line Manager

Ferraris Piston Service Ltd; Hellaby; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Alliance Automotive Logistics is seeking a First Line Manager to oversee Supervisors and their teams, translating strategic goals into actionable plans and driving continuous improvement in warehouse operations.

You will lead daily activities such as order picking, packing, inventory control and despatch, monitor KPIs, and ensure health and safety standards are met while fostering a collaborative, performance-driven culture.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: 2+ years in a warehouse/distribution leadership role.
• Familiarity with automotive parts distribution or similar high-volume environments is preferred.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily warehouse operations including order picking, packing, inventory control and despatch.
• Lead and support Supervisors; organise workloads and manage teams to meet daily targets.
• Track KPIs (pick accuracy, productivity, on-time despatch) and address underperformance.
• Drive continuous improvement with lean initiatives and SOP updates.
• Ensure health and safety compliance, conduct risk assessments, and implement corrective actions.
• Coach and mentor Supervisors; support succession planning and staff development.

Skills

Leadership

WMS

Microsoft Office

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Health and safety knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Advanced certifications in logistics/operations

Tools

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Job description

Location: Rotherham. Reports To: Operations Manager. Shift: Monday to Friday, 1430 - 2300. Comprising over 77 Distribution Centres across 8 countries, Alliance Automotive Logistics stands as the pivotal distribution arm of Alliance Automotive Group and has rooted its reputation on the principles of service excellence, its mission to cultivate and nurture enduring partnerships with its extensive clientele and suppliers, and aiming to provide sustained value and reliability in all its operations. Specialising in providing an unparalleled range of logistical solutions and delivering over 250,000 parts to garages and repair centres throughout Europe, Alliance Automotive Logistics guarantee that garages and fast-fit centres can repair and maintain their customers vehicles as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Role Overview

The First Line Manager is responsible for overseeing the performance of Supervisors and their teams to ensure operational objectives are met. As a key link between the Operations Manager and warehouse Supervisors, this role is critical for translating strategic goals into actionable plans, maintaining operational efficiency, and driving continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Manage daily warehouse operations, including order picking, packing, inventory control, and despatch. Oversee and support Supervisors in organising workloads and managing teams effectively to meet daily targets. Monitor workflow, prioritise tasks, and ensure smooth inter-departmental collaboration.
• Performance Management: Track and report on operational KPIs, such as pick accuracy, productivity, and on-time despatch rates. Review team performance regularly with Supervisors, identifying areas for improvement and addressing underperformance proactively. Implement performance improvement initiatives in line with company objectives.
• Continuous Improvement: Collaborate with Supervisors and Operations Managers to identify opportunities for process optimisation and cost reduction. Drive the implementation of lean methodologies to eliminate waste and enhance productivity. Ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) are followed and updated as needed.
• Health & Safety Compliance: Enforce adherence to health and safety regulations, supporting Supervisors in conducting risk assessments and audits. Ensure all employees operate in compliance with safe systems of work (SSOWs) and company policies. Investigate and report safety incidents, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Team Development and Engagement: Provide coaching and mentorship to Supervisors, equipping them to lead effectively and autonomously. Identify and develop high-potential employees, ensuring robust succession planning across the operational structure. Foster an inclusive and collaborative work culture, encouraging feedback and open communication.
• Resource and Workflow Management: Monitor resource allocation and staffing levels, addressing labour shortages in collaboration with recruitment teams. Ensure effective utilisation of warehouse space, equipment, and automation technology. Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams to address technical issues impacting operations.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Advanced certifications in logistics, supply chain management, or operations are advantageous.
• Experience: Extensive experience in a warehouse or distribution environment, with at least two years in a management or team leadership role. Familiarity with automotive parts distribution or similar high-volume industries is preferred.
• Skills: Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to manage and motivate teams. Proficiency in Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Microsoft Office tools. Analytical skills with the ability to interpret operational data and develop improvement strategies. Excellent communication skills, capable of engaging with stakeholders at all levels. In-depth knowledge of health and safety standards and operational best practices.

FPS conducts its business without regard to sex, race, creed, color, religion, marital status, national origin, citizenship status, age, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability or any other protected characteristic Since 1928, GPC has set the standards for performance and value for our customers and our stakeholders. Today, we’re proud to say we’re the largest global auto parts network and a leading industrial parts distributor, one that offers rewarding careers that combine small company feel with a global scale. Our strengths are in the relationships we build and the value we deliver by merging local expertise with a global force.