First Line Manager

FPS Distribution Ltd; Rotherham; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Alliance Automotive Logistics in the United Kingdom seeks a First Line Manager to oversee Supervisors and frontline teams within a busy warehouse. You will translate strategic goals into actionable plans, manage daily operations, and drive improvements across the site.

The role emphasizes KPI tracking, safety compliance, lean initiatives, and people development. Strong leadership, WMS proficiency, and communication skills are essential to maintain efficiency and foster a collaborative culture.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in warehouse/distribution with leadership role.
• Familiarity with automotive parts distribution or similar high-volume industries preferred.
• Proficiency in WMS and Microsoft Office.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily warehouse operations including picking, packing, despatch.
• Lead Supervisors and teams to meet daily targets.
• Track KPIs and drive performance improvements.
• Implement lean initiatives to reduce costs and waste.
• Ensure compliance with SSOWs and health and safety regulations.
• Develop and mentor Supervisors; support succession planning.
• Oversee resource planning and space/equipment utilisation.

Skills

Leadership

WMS proficiency

Microsoft Office

Analytical skills

Communication

Health & safety knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Advanced certifications in logistics or operations

Tools

WMS

MS Office

Job description

Location: Alliance Automotive Logistics, S66 8FT Reports To: Operations Manager Shift: Monday to Friday, 1430 to 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.

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.

Education

Qualifications and Experience

• 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