Warehouse Operations Manager

Angling Direct plc; Norwich; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fishing tackle retailer in Norwich is seeking a Warehouse Operations Manager to lead operations in their Rackheath Distribution Centre. You will be responsible for ensuring efficient, safe, and compliant warehouse operations while optimizing productivity and controlling costs. Strong leadership experience in a retail or e-commerce warehouse is essential. This role offers a dynamic work environment and involves managing a team to meet operational objectives.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in a high-volume retail/e-commerce warehouse.
• Strong WMS proficiency and data-driven decision-making.
• Demonstrable track record improving productivity, accuracy, safety and cost.
• Clear communicator with coaching ability.
• Solid knowledge of UK Health & Safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Own daily performance across Goods-In, Dispatch & Stock Control.
• Plan labour, manage attendance and build shift rotas.
• Run structured shift handovers and remove bottlenecks.
• Oversee safety checks and incident investigations.
• Support budget planning and cost control.

Skills

Proven leadership in a high-volume retail/e-commerce warehouse

Strong WMS proficiency and data-driven decision-making

Demonstrable track record improving productivity, accuracy, safety and cost

Clear communicator with the ability to coach supervisors and frontline teams

Solid knowledge of UK Health & Safety requirements

Education

IOSH Managing Safely (or equivalent H&S qualification)

Job description

Warehouse Operations Manager

Are you looking to join a dynamic team at the forefront of the angling industry? Angling Direct, the UK's leading fishing tackle retailer, is expanding and we want you to be part of the journey!

We are seeking a motivated individual to join our growing team in our Rackheath Distribution Centre. The purpose of the role is to lead and manage warehouse operations, ensuring efficient, safe, and compliant processes that support Angling Direct’s service and growth objectives. The role focuses on optimising productivity, controlling costs and maintaining high standards of health and safety.

Working Hours & Shift Pattern

• Place of Work: Rackheath Distribution Centre, Norwich
• Shift Pattern: Monday to Friday (some weekend working as and when required during busy peak periods)
• Total Hours: 42.5 hours per week
• Core Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Some flexibility required to meet operational needs)

Job Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Own daily performance across Goods‑In, Dispatch & Stock Control
• Plan labour, manage attendance and build shift rotas to meet demand, balancing permanent and agency staffing.
• Run structured shift handovers, start‑ups meetings and floor walks; remove bottlenecks and elevate risks early.
• Maintain flow, layout and housekeeping standards to minimise travel, waiting, and rework.

Safety & Compliance

• Oversee the completion of all safety checks, near‑miss reporting, and incident investigations.
• Ensure adherence to UK Health & Safety legislation and company policies.
• Keep risk assessments and statutory inspections up to date, close corrective actions promptly.
• Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all critical safety processes, ensuring clarity and accessibility for staff.

Developing and Managing a Team

• Oversee individual performance and conduct regular reviews aligned with company objectives.
• Recognise team potential and provide coaching and mentoring to support career development.
• Ensure all operatives/supervisors have up-to-date training records.
• Handle disciplinary and grievance meetings in accordance with company policies when required.

Cost Control

• Support budget planning and cost control measures.
• Optimise labour costs through efficient staffing and productivity improvements.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications

Essential

• Proven leadership in a high‑volume retail/e‑commerce warehouse.
• Strong WMS proficiency and data‑driven decision‑making.
• Demonstrable track record improving productivity, accuracy, safety and cost.
• Clear communicator with the ability to coach supervisors and frontline teams.
• Solid knowledge of UK Health & Safety requirements and safe operating practices.

Desirable

• IOSH Managing Safely (or equivalent H&S qualification).
• Experience with automated storage/picking systems.
• Lean / Six Sigma exposure.