Operations Manager

Bidfood Limited; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food service distributor is seeking an Operations Manager for their Timaru branch. The role is hands-on and vital for driving performance and team engagement. Responsibilities include overseeing warehousing and distribution, managing staff recruitment and training, and fostering a culture of efficiency and accountability. The position offers a full handover and ongoing support from senior management. Previous experience in logistics or distribution is essential.

Benefits

Ongoing support from management

Team-focused environment

Qualifications

• Proven ability to lead in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with recruitment and performance feedback.
• Strong focus on efficiency and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee warehousing, nightshift, and distribution.
• Lead staff recruitment and training.
• Identify process improvements for safety and service.
• Maintain vehicles and equipment to ensure compliance.
• Build a motivational team culture.

Skills

Leadership

Communication skills

Process improvement

Team building

Job description

We’re on the lookout for an Operations Manager to help lead our Timaru branch — a role that’s hands‑on, people‑focused, and critical to our success. This opportunity has come about through internal changes, and we’re keen to see someone step up who’s ready to drive performance, inspire the team, and keep operations running smoothly

What you’ll be doing

• Oversee warehousing, nightshift, and distribution — ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Lead and support staff with recruitment, training, coaching, and regular performance feedback.
• Identify and implement process improvements that strengthen compliance, safety, and service delivery.
• Keep vehicles, plant, and equipment maintained, compliant, and operating at their best.
• Build a motivated team culture where ownership, accountability, and enthusiasm are the norm.

What we’re looking for

• A leader who thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.
• Someone with a solution‑focused mindset, strong communication skills, and a genuine commitment to supporting people.
• An eye for efficiency and process improvement, backed by practical experience in distribution or logistics.
• A proven ability to foster a positive workplace culture where the team feels engaged and supported.

Why Timaru?

Timaru is a strong‑performing branch, with a team that consistently pulls together to deliver results for our customers. The role comes with a full handover, ongoing support from the HOD team, and backing from senior management — you won’t be doing it alone.