Operations Manager

Cox Enterprises; Northampton; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Holiday days

Birthday day off

Well-Being Day

Charity Day

Career progression

Pension

Job summary

Manheim Auction Services, part of Cox Enterprises, Northampton, is seeking an Operations Manager to lead the entire Operations function, drive efficiency, and deliver outstanding service. The role focuses on improving processes, supervising teams, and achieving KPIs and SLAs in a dynamic environment.

You will coordinate yard operations, vehicle flow, and stock checks while working closely with Sales, Transport, and Buyer Services.

Qualifications

• Strong computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Proven people management experience leading large teams.
• Experience in regulated operational/logistical environments.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in fast-paced settings.
• Budget management and financial planning experience.
• Strong communication, time management and organisational skills.
• Good understanding of Health & Safety regulations and compliance.
• Customer-facing experience with handling queries and complaints.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Operations department on a day-to-day basis, including direct responsibility for all operational team members.
• Oversee yard operations, vehicle movement coordination, entry control, gating, inspections, and imaging/pre-inspection activities.
• Collaborate with Sales, Transport, and Buyer Services to ensure accurate stock management and regular stock checks.
• Manage departmental resources and budgets, including overtime and agency staff.
• Lead people management activities including 1:1 meetings, performance management, investigations and HR development.
• Monitor productivity and quality standards across all operations and ensure compliance with KPIs and SLAs.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, revenue, and profitability.

Skills

People management

Regulatory compliance

Budget management

Stock management

Health & Safety

Customer service

Job description

Operations Manager

Northampton

£38,667

40 hours a week (Monday – Friday)

Accelerate your career with a company that leads the way!

Manheim Auction Services is proud to be part of Cox Enterprises — a family-run company with a remarkable 120-year legacy of innovation and forward thinking. As the world’s largest automotive services organization, we’re a global force with more than 24,000 team members supporting over 40,000 customers worldwide.

At Manheim, we believe our differences drive us forward. We champion a culture where everyone — our people, clients, and communities — can thrive together, united by respect, inclusion, and a shared passion for progress. Diversity isn’t just a value; it’s a vital part of our success.

Manheim Auction Services offers a seamless blend of physical and digital auctions, connecting buyers and vendors with an extensive range of vehicles. Whether in person or online, we’re redefining the vehicle auction experience — one transaction at a time.

Why Join Us & What’s In It For You?

As a Cox Automotive team member, you’ll have access to a wide range of benefits, including exclusive discounts, cashback offers and our brilliant peer to peer recognition scheme. And there’s even more to enjoy:

• Option to buy additional holiday days
• Your birthday off every year - paid
• One annual Well-Being Day for you to relax and recharge
• One paid Charity Day to give back and support a cause that matters to you
• Opportunities for career progression across the Cox Automotive network
• Competitive pension scheme

About The Role

The role is responsible for leading, managing, and driving all aspects of the Operations function, ensuring effective delivery through strong leadership, dedicated support, and best-practice operational standards. The position focuses on improving processes, efficiency, and performance in line with agreed KPIs and SLAs.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead and manage the Operations department on a day-to-day basis, including direct responsibility for all operational team members.
• Oversee and support all areas of Operations, including yard operations, vehicle movement coordination, entry control and gating, vehicle inspections, and imaging/pre-inspection activities.
• Work closely with Sales, Transport, and Buyer Services teams to ensure accurate stock management, supporting regular stock checks and resolving operational losses effectively.
• Manage departmental resources and budgets, including the effective use of overtime and agency staff.
• Take full responsibility for people management activities, including monthly 1:1 meetings, performance management, investigations, disciplinary and grievance processes, and supporting employee development in partnership with HR.
• Monitor and drive productivity and quality standards across all operational areas, ensuring consistent performance and compliance.
• Manage vehicle flow across the site, ensuring high-quality output and strong collaboration between all operational sub-departments.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, increase revenue, and improve overall site profitability.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong computer skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Proven people management experience, including leading large teams.
• Experience working in a highly regulated operational or logistical environment.
• A background in fast-paced environments with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Budget management and financial planning experience.Strong communication, time management, and organisational skills.
• A good understanding of Health & Safety regulations and compliance.
• Customer-facing experience with the ability to handle queries and resolve complaints professionally.
• Experience working with Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs), Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), plant, and equipment. (desirable)
• An HGV (shunting) and/or Forklift Truck licence would be advantageous but is not essential, as full training will be provided.

We’re Committed to Inclusion

We are proud to be an inclusive and equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in all its forms. We are a place where you can be you.