Operations Manager

ZipRecruiter; Wembley; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cosmetics brand is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee and optimize export operations from the UK to the US, ensuring compliance with regulations and efficient logistics. This role involves collaboration with production and sales teams, problem-solving for shipments, and occasional travel to the US. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of relevant experience in international logistics and a strong understanding of export processes, along with excellent communication skills.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Travel opportunities

Career growth potential

Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years in export operations or international logistics.
• Hands-on experience managing UK to US exports highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of export documentation and customs clearance.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full export lifecycle from the UK to the US.
• Ensure timely and compliant shipments with freight providers.
• Collaborate with internal teams to align supply chain activities.

Skills

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Problem-Solving

Analytical Skills

Organisational Skills

Tools

ERP Software

Logistics Software

Job description

Job Description

We Are Refyne are proud to be partnered with a successful and fast-growing cosmetics brand known for its strong digital presence and loyal online community.

With a focus on quality, customer satisfaction and expansion into new global markets, the brand is now seeking an Operations Manager to lead and optimise export operations from their UK manufacturing site to the US, ensuring seamless cross-border logistics, regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

You will work closely with internal departments, external partners and their US based team to deliver excellent customer outcomes and supply chain performance.

The role includes occasional travel to the US to coordinate and align with their local operations and distribution teams.

Key Responsibilities:

* Oversee and manage the full export lifecycle from the UK manufacturing site to US destinations.

* Ensure timely, cost-effective, and compliant shipments in coordination with freight forwarders, customs brokers and 3PL providers.

* Manage all export documentation including commercial invoices, certificates of , packing lists and export declarations.

* Maintain compliance with UK and US customs and regulatory requirements, including Incoterms, HMRC, FDA and CBP standards.

* Collaborate with production, warehousing, and sales teams to align supply chain activities with business goals.

* Drive continuous improvement in logistics performance, reducing lead times and optimising freight costs.

* Lead issue resolution and risk management for all international shipments, with a focus on proactive problem-solving.

* Liaise with the US operations team on planning, inventory, and service level expectations - occasional international travel required.

* Track and report on KPIs, including shipping accuracy, delivery performance, cost variance and service quality.

* Keep abreast of global trade changes and advise the business on potential operational impacts.

About you:

* Minimum 5+ years of experience in export operations, international logistics, or supply chain management within a manufacturing or distribution environment.

* Hands-on experience managing UK to US exports is highly desirable.

* Strong understanding of export documentation, customs clearance processes and international freight.

* Familiarity with ERP and logistics software.

* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, both in the UK and internationally.

* Excellent organisational and analytical skills with a continuous improvement mindset.

* Ability to manage complexity and work under pressure in a fast-moving environment.

* Sound knowledge of trade compliance, Incoterms and global shipping practices.

What's on offer:

* An opportunity to lead a critical international logistics function.

* Dynamic, fast-growing business with international expansion goals.

* Exposure to senior stakeholders and cross-border collaboration.

* Competitive salary, benefits package and travel opportunities.

* Career growth and leadership development potential