Warehouse Shift Manager

Poundland; Watford; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

A retail company in England is seeking a Warehouse Shift Manager to oversee a diverse team of up to 60 colleagues in their Distribution Centre. The successful candidate will drive performance, ensure compliance with safety standards, and collaborate with various stakeholders to achieve operational excellence. This full-time, permanent position offers a salary of up to £43,000 plus benefits, including a bonus potential and generous holiday allowance, while fostering a positive work culture.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Bonus potential

Free on-site parking

Exclusive store discounts

Health & wellbeing programme

Generous holiday allowance

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Strong leadership experience, preferably in FMCG distribution or a similar environment.
• Proven ability to manage large teams and deliver results in a high-volume setting.
• Excellent organisation and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of Warehouse Team Managers and Operatives.
• Ensure KPIs are met and budgets managed efficiently.
• Foster a safety-first culture and compliance with health and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership experience

Knowledge of FMCG distribution

Interpersonal skills

Ability to manage competing priorities

Proficiency in warehouse management systems

Tools

Warehouse Management System

Time and Attendance systems

Job description

Overview

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. The role leads a large and diverse team with direct responsibility for four managers and overall leadership of up to 60 colleagues on shift, focusing on the Yellow Shift with a weekend‑focused 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Core Behaviours

• Love Our Customers – we prioritize delighting our customers, listening and responding to their needs.
• 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.

Qualifications

• 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.

Benefits

• Professional development: a comprehensive induction plan and the opportunity to complete in‑house development programmes or pursue qualifications via our apprenticeship programme.
• Bonus potential – unlock the possibility of earning additional bonuses, rewarding your hard work and achievements.
• Free on‑site parking.
• On‑site coffee lounge.
• Exclusive store discounts – 10% discount on most in‑store purchases.
• Family‑friendly benefits.
• My Staff Shop – exclusive discounts through our portal.
• Life assurance cover.
• Health & wellbeing programme.
• Generous holiday allowance – starting with a generous leave entitlement that increases by one day each year (up to 33 days), with the option to buy additional holiday annually.
• Pension scheme – contributory pension scheme to plan for a secure retirement.

Salary & Working Pattern

Salary: up to £43,000 (plus weekend premium) plus benefits. Working pattern: full time, permanent.

Equal Opportunities Statement

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of gender, race, national origin, age, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.