Depot Manager – Swanscombe

NVSWeb; Swanscombe; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary wholesaler in the UK is looking for a Depot Manager to oversee operations at their distribution depot. This role is critical for ensuring efficient logistics and managing a team of delivery drivers. Responsibilities include daily management of depot operations, compliance with health and safety standards, and effective communication with other departments. Candidates should possess strong managerial experience and a background in distribution logistics. Competitive remuneration and career development opportunities offered.

Qualifications

• Must have proven managerial and leadership experience, preferably within the wholesale sector.
• Experience in distribution and logistics is required.
• Proficiency in managing a fleet of vehicles is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the distribution depot and delivery fleet.
• Lead and manage a team of delivery drivers.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety standards.
• Coordinate manpower within the depot effectively.

Skills

Hard working and reliable

Excellent communication skills

Planning and organisational skills

PC literate

Ability to work under pressure

Proven managerial experience

Experience in distribution and logistics

Job description

National Veterinary Services Limited is the UK’s leading veterinary wholesaler, providing next‑day supply and distribution services to veterinary practices through a nationwide network of depots. We also operate diagnostic laboratories and develop IT solutions for the veterinary industry, committed to improving animal health.

We are seeking a dedicated Depot Manager to oversee daily operations at our distribution depot in GB. Based in the UK, this role is vital in ensuring efficient logistics and supply chain management, supporting our mission to deliver exceptional veterinary products and services.

Normal working hours – Early start time – c. 4am

Main purpose of the role

To manage the day to day operations of the distribution depot and delivery fleet including the sample collection service and any 3PL warehouse duties where applicable.

Core role accountabilities: Principal tasks and responsibilities

Manage the day to day Operation

• Lead a team of designated delivery drivers with the support of a Lead Driver.
• Provide first line management of the drivers and Lead Driver and manage performance and conduct of the depot staff.
• Efficient co‑ordination and planning of manpower within the depot.
• Managing the depot process for CD’s, Fridge items and returns.
• Ensure that all depot staff are trained correctly in accordance with GDP guidelines and Company Procedures.
• Work closely with the HR department to ensure that Company Policies and Procedures are adhered to.
• Use vehicle tracking and vehicle temperature monitoring tools to ensure vehicle fridge and load compartments are running within compliant temperature ranges.
• Liaise with customer services and deal with delivery issues and concerns quickly and efficiently.
• Ensure the depot/vehicles are maintained and cleaned to the standard expected by NVS and arrange/request repair as and when needed.
• Management of depot staffing levels/sickness/absence/recruitment.
• Undertake such other duties as may be reasonably required for the effective operation and function of the depot – including any 3PL activities.

Administration

• Creating daily / weekly / monthly management reports and KPI’s as there is a responsibility for the overall performance of the depot in ensuring that targets are achieved in line with strategic business needs.

Communication

• Liaise with other departments and managers in relation to delivery issues etc, to ensure efficient service is provided at all times
• Communicate issues affecting the performance of the depot to the National or Regional Distribution Manager.

Health & Safety

• Ensure Health & Safety compliance at all times including wearing of any PPE supplied
• Promote Health & Safety awareness throughout the depot environment
• Be aware of relevant Risk Assessments and Fire Assessments

Other Duties

• Be aware of and follow Company Standard Operating Procedures
• Report to operational management any matters adversely affecting the protection of the company’s fleet, deliveries and customer base.
• Assist, when required, with other functions within the Operation, including covering other Depot managers when absent and covering van routes if needed.
• Ad hoc tasks as requested by management.

Personal attributes: Qualifications, experience, skills, knowledge and competencies required to fulfil the role

• Hard working and reliable
• Build and maintain a happy, cohesive and motivated team
• Excellent communication, planning and organisational skills
• PC literate
• An ability to prioritise and work compliantly under pressure in a fast paced environment
• A high level of integrity with a willingness to take ownership and responsibility
• Proven managerial and leadership experience, preferably within the wholesale sector
• Experience of distribution and logistics, preferably experience of controlling a fleet of vans