National Operations Manager

Johnsons 1871; Croydon; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic National Operations Manager to lead their operational team in a fast-paced environment. This role involves training and upskilling managers, ensuring compliance, and driving customer satisfaction across branches. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in logistics and team leadership, with a focus on operational efficiency and strategic planning. With opportunities for nationwide travel, this position promises a rewarding career path in a company dedicated to sustainable practices and exceptional service delivery. Join a forward-thinking team committed to excellence and innovation!

Benefits

Competitive salary with performance bonuses

Flexible working

Employee Discount Scheme

Health Care & Death in service cover

Company pension

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior operational role within removals or logistics.
• Strong leadership and management skills to run a successful team.
• Ability to develop long-term operational strategies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate Operations Managers, ensuring high performance.
• Champion a customer-first culture to enhance satisfaction.
• Prepare and manage the national operations budget effectively.

Skills

Team Leadership

Logistics Management

Customer Service

Operational Planning

Compliance Knowledge

Communication Skills

Education

Degree in Business Management

CPC Qualification

Tools

Performance Reporting Tools

Budget Management Software

Job description

Johnsons 1871 are a leading workplace transformation and relocation management company, delivering tailored move solutions for public and private sector clients across the UK. From major corporate consolidations to sustainable reuse and decommissioning projects, we pride ourselves on delivering seamless transition experiences that put people and the planet first.

As we grow our client base and project portfolio, we're looking for a dynamic National Operations Manager who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can confidently manage the operational team.

Reporting to the National Operations Director, you will be responsible for training and upskilling our Operations managers, ensuring seamless service delivery, operational efficiency, and high customer satisfaction across our branches. The ideal candidate will have a proven background in logistics, team leadership, and strategic operational planning within the removals industry. This is a role that requires nationwide travel, therefore a driving licence is required.

We are an equal opportunities employer. Our policy is to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we work in and follow the guidelines of the Equal Opportunities Act 2010.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and motivate the Operations Managers within a demanding environment, including career development plans for direct reports and supporting with problem resolution.
• Develop a high-performance culture through effective coaching, mentoring, and staff development.
• Drive accountability and performance by setting clear expectations and conducting regular reviews.
  
  

Customer Service Alignment

• Champion a customer-first culture within the Operations team, ensuring high satisfaction and repeat business.
• Analyse feedback and performance metrics to identify trends and develop service improvements.
  
  

Compliance & Health & Safety

• Support managers to maintain excellent standards of compliance with all relevant legal, environmental, and health & safety regulations.
• Oversee regular audits and risk assessments, ensuring all staff follow safe working practices.
• Support managers with incident investigations and implement preventative measures where necessary.
  
  

Budgeting & Financial Management

• Prepare, manage, and monitor the national operations budget in line with business objectives.
• Drive cost efficiency across operations without compromising service quality.
• Produce detailed performance reports for senior leadership, including analysis on KPIs, service levels, and operational costs.
  
  

Change & Project Management

• Support and contribute to national initiatives such as system upgrades, warehouse expansions, or sustainability projects.
• Manage the operational rollout of new services, partnerships, or locations.
• Monitor KPIs and implement continuous improvement strategies to enhance service quality, efficiency, and profitability.
• Support the company’s growth strategy through scalable and future-focused operations planning.
  
  

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with Sales, Projects and HR departments to align operational strategies with wider business goals.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and third-party service providers.
• Represent operations in executive meetings, providing insights and strategic input.
  
  

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a senior operational role within the removals or logistics sector.
• Ability to demonstrate your understanding of procedures and legal requirements associated with move management.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills, together with strong leadership and management skills to efficiently run and support a successful team.
• Ability to contribute to the development of long-term operational strategies.
• Be able to work flexible and support Operations managers where necessary.
  
  

Desirable Qualifications

Driving License Essential

CPC qualification at a National LevelProficient IT skills

Degree in Business Management, Logistics, or a related field (desirable but not essential)

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance bonuses
• Flexible working
• Employee Discount Scheme
• Health Care & Death in service cover
• Company pension