Warehouse Control Room Specialist

Cencora, Inc.; Highgate; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics firm in Highgate is looking for a dynamic professional to provide system monitoring and operational support at their next-generation Central Logistics Centre. Responsibilities include ensuring optimal warehouse system performance, collaborating with technical teams, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. The ideal candidate has excellent communication skills and experience in high-volume automated environments. Join a team dedicated to creating healthier futures and apply now to be part of this innovative organization.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to apply technical knowledge to resolve issues.
• Proficient in performance metrics and data analysis.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage conflicting responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide system monitoring and issue resolution for warehouse systems.
• Assist team leaders and department managers with technical support.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Interpersonal skills

Data analysis proficiency

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Time management

Tools

KNAPP warehouse management system

Microsoft Office 365

Automated warehouse systems

Job description

Overview

This role is in support of Cencora's wholesale distribution services in Europe operating through our Alliance Healthcare business. This is a truly exciting opportunity to be part of Alliance Healthcare UK's new, next‑generation Central Logistics Centre (CLC). You will play a pivotal role in the launch, continuous improvement and ongoing success of this world‑class, game‑changing facility. Designed with advanced automation and cutting‑edge robotics, the CLC is set to redefine how Alliance Healthcare manages and delivers medical, health and beauty products to our customers across the UK. Our team members are at the heart of everything we do. At Alliance Healthcare, a Cencora company, we are united in our responsibility to create healthier futures, and every person here is essential to us being able to deliver on that purpose. Please note that while at the beginning this will be a Monday to Friday 9‑5 role, from January you will be required to work rotating AM and PM shifts.

System Monitoring and Issue Resolution

• Provide core shift cover of the Knapp and Manhattan warehouse management system, meticulously tracking and documenting the operational system's status and ensuring prompt resolution of any issues.
• Ensure maximum use of system capacity, including identifying and mitigating systematic bottlenecks.
• Monitor the system performance to ensure optimum throughput and system availability.
• Participate in troubleshooting and conduct root‑cause analysis for complex control system related issues.
• Identify when performance is dropping below accepted levels and promptly seek solutions to resolve system issues to minimise downtime and ensure continuous operations.
• Partner with the technical team to develop best practices for the WMS.

Operational Support

• Act as a point of contact for all on‑shift team leaders and department managers, answering questions and providing a source of answers and further understanding.
• Collaborate with team leaders to ensure smooth communication and efficient issue resolution.
• Ensure that the warehouse systems utilise workload information daily to optimise service and efficiency.
• Continuously monitor and improve system performance to enhance operational productivity.
• Provide KPI data to the warehouse leadership and operations teams to support their planning and tactical processes.
• Oversight of technical resource development will involve creating long‑term strategic plans to guarantee efficient and cost‑effective solutions.

Support and Coordination

• Assist team leaders and department managers by providing technical support and insights into system performance.
• Coordinate with IT and engineering teams to expedite and resolve technical issues.
• Build and be part of a positive work environment, built on our Guiding Principles, encouraging teamwork and continuous improvement.
• Use influencing skills to ensure issues and challenges overcome within a timely manner.

Health and Safety, ESG

• Ensure all systems comply with safety standards and company policies.
• Promote a health and safety culture that ensures safe processes, procedures and behaviours as well as continuous improvement through best practice activities.
• Ensure all work adheres to regulatory compliance standards, including EU Good Distribution Practice (EUGDP) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Operational Efficiency

• Maintain high standards of quality and accuracy in all warehouse operations, ensuring pharmaceutical products are handled correctly.
• Support the Knapp team, ensuring they respond quickly to issues to minimise operational impact.
• Coordinate efforts to address system faults and operational disruptions promptly.
• Support weekly pick strategy changes to ensure the warehouse is set up for the coming week.
• Ensure A‑frame channel set‑up is optimised and action any slotting changes that may be needed.
• Manage the outbound flow, including tactical workload prioritisation, to ensure store service is not affected by operational issues.
• Continuously monitor system performance to ensure it meets expected levels.
• Identify trends and patterns in system performance to improve throughput and availability.
• Be one of the first to join a brand‑new operation where you'll play a key role in shaping and establishing best practice ways of working from the ground up.
• Manage and oversee a highly automated warehouse, using advanced systems and equipment to drive efficiency and innovation.
• Work with cutting‑edge technology at one of the most automated pharmaceutical sites in the world.
• Be integral to the business's success by ensuring smooth operations and delivering exceptional customer service through proactive problem‑solving and system optimisation.
• Work closely with systems, operations and other cross‑functional teams to align processes, improve workflows, and ensure seamless communication.
• Thrive in a dynamic environment with the ability to take ownership of challenges and take initiative.
• Use data and trends to identify root causes, solve problems, and lead continuous improvement efforts to optimise warehouse performance, identifying and driving metrics to improve site throughput and service levels.
• Enjoy a role that blends working with people, managing complex systems, and refining processes for maximum efficiency.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication, interpersonal and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced working environment.
• Experience in an automated, high‑volume warehouse.
• Demonstrated ability to apply technical knowledge to diagnose, troubleshoot, resolve or help others resolve equipment and process issues.
• Excellent analytical, attention to detail and problem‑solving skills, including the ability to deal with ambiguity.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritise and multi‑task various and conflicting responsibilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfortable working in varying temperatures within the warehouse environment.
• Proficiency in data analysis and performance metrics.
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively across multiple functional departments.
• Ability to lift and move materials as needed, as well as standing and walking for extended periods.
• Ability to work with multiple platforms utilising desktop computers, PC's, handheld devices and material handling equipment.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including shifts, to meet operational needs.
• Strong organisational skills to manage time, tasks and resources effectively, ensuring deadlines and targets are met.
• Advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Office 365 applications.

Desirable Requirements

• Strong knowledge of KNAPP and warehouse management systems (WMS) and automated technologies.
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance and quality standards in pharmaceutical distribution.

Our team members are at the heart of everything we do. At Cencora, we are united in our responsibility to create healthier futures, and every person here is essential to us being able to deliver on that purpose. If you want to make a difference at the centre of health, come join our innovative company and help us improve the lives of people and animals everywhere. Apply today!