Warehouse Shift Manager

Poundland; Harlow; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail company in Harlow is seeking a Warehouse Shift Manager to lead a large team within their Distribution Centre. This permanent, full-time role involves overseeing operations, improving efficiencies, and promoting a safety culture. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership experience in FMCG distribution or similar, and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively. The position offers professional development opportunities, bonus potential, onsite amenities, and generous holiday allowances.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Bonus potential

Free on-site parking

Onsite coffee lounge

Exclusive store discounts

Generous holiday allowance

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Strong leadership experience in FMCG distribution or similar environment.
• Knowledge of health and safety legislation.
• Proven ability to deliver results in a high-volume setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of Warehouse Team Managers and Operatives.
• Oversee daily operations ensuring KPIs are met.
• Drive continuous improvement through innovative solutions.

Skills

Strong leadership experience

Knowledge of distribution operations

Proven ability to manage large teams

Excellent organisation skills

Proficiency in warehouse management systems

Collaborative mindset

Tools

Time and Attendance

Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Job description

About the role....

Are you ready to take your leadership career forward? Poundland is looking for a Warehouse Shift Manager to join our Distribution Centre in Harlow. This is a key leadership role within a fast-paced operation, where you will take full responsibility for driving performance, developing people, and delivering outstanding service to our stores and customers.

As Warehouse Manager, you will lead a large and diverse team, with direct responsibility for four managers and overall leadership of up to 60 colleagues on shift. You will play a critical role in improving efficiencies across the operation, embedding best practice, and creating a positive environment where people can grow and succeed moving forwards.

This is a permanent, full-time position leading the Yellow Shift, with a weekend-focused shift pattern:

• 7:00am – 7:00pm
• Week 1: Friday to Monday
• Week 2: Friday to Sunday

You will be expected to confidently manage the site on Saturday and Sunday in the absence of the DC Controller, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient operations at all times. Working closely with senior stakeholders including the DC Controller, Stock Controller, Transport Manager, Planning Manager and Finance Manager, you will influence decision‑making and drive results through strong leadership and collaboration.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced distribution environment, demonstrates clear leadership capability, and is passionate about improving operational performance while supporting and developing people.

We uphold three core behaviours that guide all our actions:

• Love Our Customers: We strive to delight our customers, listening and responding to their needs because they are our priority.
• Care for Our Colleagues: We support each other to foster a workplace where everyone can thrive.
• Protect Our Pounds/Euros: We are committed to cost‑efficiency and value, ensuring every penny counts.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Your Impact and Responsibilities...

As a Warehouse Shift Manager, you’ll:

• Lead and develop a team of Warehouse Team Managers, Operatives, and Clerical Colleagues.
• Oversee daily operations, ensuring KPIs are met, and budgets are managed efficiently.
• Foster a safety‑first culture by ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
• Collaborate with teams across Distribution, Transport, HR, and other functions to ensure seamless operations.
• Drive continuous improvement, implementing innovative solutions to enhance efficiency.
• Deliver performance management, training, and development initiatives to build high‑performing teams.
• Act as Duty Manager, taking ownership of the Distribution Centre in the absence of senior managers.
• Promote a positive work environment through clear communication, recognition, and respect.

Skills and Knowledge...

We’re looking for someone with:

• Strong leadership experience, preferably in FMCG distribution or a similar environment.
• Knowledge of distribution operations, health and safety legislation, and financial acumen.
• Proven ability to manage large teams and deliver results in a high‑volume setting.
• Excellent organisation and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Proficiency in warehouse management systems and associated tools (e.g., Time and Attendance, WMS).
• A collaborative mindset and a solutions‑focused approach to challenges

Why choose us?

• Professional development: A comprehensive induction plan and the opportunity to complete in‑house development programmes to set you up for success or to pursue qualification through our apprenticeship programme.
• Bonus Potential: Unlock the possibility of earning additional bonuses, rewarding your hard work and achievements.
• Free On‑Site Parking: Enjoy the convenience of free parking, making your daily commute hassle‑free.
• Onsite Coffee Lounge: Take advantage of our onsite coffee lounge, a perfect space to relax and recharge during breaks.
• Exclusive Store Discounts: Receive a 10% discount on most in‑store purchases, enhancing your shopping experience.
• Family‑Friendly Benefits: Our comprehensive benefits are designed to support your and your family’s needs.
• My Staff Shop: Gain exclusive discounts through our ‘My Staff Shop’ portal, saving on various products and services.
• Life Assurance Cover: Enjoy peace of mind with our life assurance cover, securing your family’s future.
• Health & Wellbeing Programme: Benefit from an employee assistance programme that supports your health and wellbeing.
• Generous Holiday Allowance: Start with a generous leave entitlement that increases by one day each year (up to 33 days), with the option to buy additional holiday annually. Celebrate your special day off work every year with an extra day’s holiday because we believe birthdays are important.
• Pension Scheme: Plan for the future with our contributory pension scheme, helping you save for a secure retirement.