Operations Manager

JD Sports Fashion PLC; Rochdale; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

JD Sports Fashion PLC is seeking an experienced Distribution Centre leader to drive safe, efficient operations and develop a high-performing team of Managers. You will collaborate across the organisation to deliver the distribution business plan within budgets and KPI targets.

You will lead by example, champion safety, manage a large team, and continuously improve processes while aligning with company standards and values. Strong budget planning and data-driven decision making are essential.

Qualifications

• Managerial experience within a similar size manufacturing, processing or distribution environment.
• Automation experience within a Distribution/Logistics setting.
• Proven ability to lead large teams and manage multi-channel operations.
• Strong knowledge of Health & Safety requirements and compliance in distribution.
• Ability to interpret data and apply insights to improve performance.
• Experience delivering against budgeted targets and KPIs.

Responsibilities

• Lead by example to ensure high standards and safety across the site.
• Maintain safety-first culture and enforce safety policies and procedures.
• Support the operational strategy, delivering KPIs within budget.
• Develop and coach Managers to build a capable leadership team.
• Plan headcount with Planning and manage capacity and stock where needed.
• Work with partners to implement continuous improvements in process and efficiency.
• Develop budgets and forecasts for capital and revenue expenditure.
• Drive engagement and ensure consistency in performance across teams.

Skills

Managerial exp

Automation

Large teams

Multi-Channel

Health & Safety

Data interpretation

Team dynamics

Coaching & motivation

Budgeting experience

Clear communication

Job description

Role Purpose

Integral part of an Operational Management team that are responsible for the safe and efficient execution of all core Distribution Centre activities. You will lead and develop your team of Managers by setting and regularly reviewing objectives aimed at delivering the Distribution business plan within the agreed budget. You will work with a group of Operations Managers, creating a One Team approach, ensuring consistency and high performance across all elements of the Operation

Key Duties/Responsibilities

• To lead by example and ensure that all colleagues work in line with required Company Standards and all Health and Safety measures, creating and maintaining a safety first culture
• Comply with all company Health and safety policies and procedures, ensuring a safe working environment for all and always work within defined safety areas.
• Ensure you escape any safety breaches or potential risks to relevant site Management and/or the H&S team.
• Leading a safety-first culture across site, challenge unsafe working in a value led manner and actively seek to improve H&S procedures in across site.
• Support your line manager in the planning and execution of the operational strategy, ensuring the site delivers against defined KPIs whilst being able to meet and support the changing business needs
• partner with peers and other key contacts throughout Distribution, Head Office and Stores
• Maximise productivity, efficiency and quality and deliver operational plans through the effective management of direct reports
• Partner with the Planning team to define headcount requirements in line with the business plan in addition to the management of capacity and stock issues
• Work with key business partners to ensure the site has an effective people strategy including succession planning and team development at all levels
• Identify, facilitate and implement initiatives for continuous improvements in methodology, quality, effectiveness and consistency of process
• Support the Lead Operations Managers in the development of budgets and forecasts for both capital and revenue expenditure
• Develop all colleagues through appropriate interventions, such as probationary reviews, appraisals, PDP’s and frequent and candid conversations in order to drive high performing individuals and teams.
• Adhere to performance, conduct and absence management processes to ensure underperformance of individuals and teams is managed appropriately. Analyse trends where appropriate, coach and where necessary follow the disciplinary processes.
• Identify appropriate reward and recognition opportunities to drive engagement on site, ensuring a consistent approach is achieved.
• Ensure that all employee relations issues are managed in line with Company Policy and legal requirements
• Undertake any other reasonable duties in line with the needs of the business

Values/Behaviours

• Integrity - Consistently demonstrates integrity and high standards of work; Acts professionally with an honest and fair approach
• Teamwork - Communicates effectively at all levels; Responds to internal / external customer needs in a timely and effective manner; Works collaboratively, showing respect to colleagues at all times
• Entrepreneurial approach - Is bold and passionate about the organisation, its products, services and its people; Experiments, takes risks and makes it happen; If there’s a better way, find it
• Accountability - Is responsible for their actions; Takes ownership of decisions and outcomes

Skills/Experience/Knowledge Needed

• Managerial experience within a similar size manufacturing, processing or distribution environment
• Automation experience
• Worked with large teams and large scale operations
• Multi-Channel experience
• Proven working knowledge of Health & Safety and legal requirements within a distribution environment
• Ability to interpret data and effectively apply outcome to the needs of the business
• Knowledge of team dynamics and the effects of a positive working environment
• Demonstrate the ability to coach, lead and motivate large teams to deliver results.
• Experience of working within set budgetary and performance targeted workplace
• Able to clearly communicate at all levels (direct and indirect reports) delegating to the appropriate level