Head of Operations

Harbourne Associates; Tonbridge and Malling; On-site; GBP 59,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the automotive and industrial cleaning sector seeks a dynamic Head of Operations to lead their warehouse team. This role offers the opportunity to drive operational excellence and cultural transformation within a supportive, family-run business. You will have the autonomy to implement change, enhance efficiency, and inspire a high-performing team while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. If you are ready to make a significant impact and thrive in a collaborative environment, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

23 days holiday + bank holidays

Pension

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing high-volume warehouse environments.
• Strong track record in delivering operational change and cultural transformation.

Responsibilities

• Lead all warehouse operations: receiving, storage, picking, packing, and dispatch.
• Drive continuous improvement using lean principles and data-driven decision making.

Skills

Warehouse Management

Leadership

Operational Change

Inventory Control

Problem-Solving

Tools

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Job description

Head of Operations

My client are proud to be a leading force in the automotive and industrial cleaning industry. With a strong focus on quality, service, and innovation, their warehouse is the engine room of our success. We’re now looking for a dynamic and experienced Head of Operations to lead our warehouse team and drive a step-change in performance, efficiency, and culture.

The Opportunity

As Head of Operations, you'll be at the forefront of operational excellence—leading the day-to-day activities of our busy warehouse while championing transformation across systems, processes, and team culture. This is your chance to make a significant impact in a growing business, with the autonomy and support to implement change and deliver real results.

What You’ll Do

• Lead all warehouse operations: receiving, storage, picking, packing, and dispatch.
• Analyse workflows, identify inefficiencies, and roll out best-in-class operational practices.
• Develop and inspire a high-performing team through clear leadership and accountability.
• Design and implement new SOPs to improve accuracy and throughput.
• Drive continuous improvement using lean principles and data-driven decision making.
• Ensure full compliance with health and safety standards.
• Manage inventory control and conduct regular stock takes.
• Work closely with the leadership team to align operations with wider business goals.
• Build a culture of ownership, collaboration, and pride in performance.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience managing a high-volume warehouse environment.
• A strong track record of delivering operational change and cultural transformation.
• Excellent leadership and people development skills.
• Expertise in warehouse management systems (WMS) and inventory control.
• Familiarity with lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies (a plus).
• A hands-on, solution-focused approach with strong communication and problem-solving abilities.

Package:

• Basic salary: Upto £70k (negotiable on experience.)
• 23 days holiday + plus bank holidays
• Pension

You’ll be joining a passionate, family-run business where your ideas, energy, and leadership will make a genuine difference. We offer a supportive environment where you can thrive professionally while helping shape the future of our operations.