Operations Manager

Operations Manager – Basildon Salary Cric £50-60K + 10% bonus 23 Days holiday + BH Hours 7am – 4pm Mon – Fri Free parking Pension with Life Insurance Health care Paid volunteer days Perk Box discounts We are looking for an experienced, hands-on Operations Manager to lead our busy pallet network operation. The successful candidate will hold a valid CPC qualification and have strong transport compliance, health & safety, and people management experience. Responsible for the day-to-day running of the transport and warehouse operation, you will lead a team of 20 HGV drivers and 45 operational staff, ensure the safe, efficient, and profitable delivery of services while maintaining high customer service standards. Key Responsibilities * Manage transport and warehouse operations within a pallet network environment. * Hold responsibility for Operator Licence compliance, drivers' hours, tachographs, vehicle maintenance, and transport legislation. * Promote and maintain a strong health & safety culture across the site. * Lead, motivate, and develop a team of 20 HGV drivers and 45 operational staff. * Take ownership of operational budgets and P&L performance. * Drive operational efficiency, productivity, and continuous improvement. * Monitor KPIs and implement corrective actions where required. * Ensure service levels, customer expectations, and business objectives are consistently achieved. * Lead from the front with a hands-on approach and willingness to support operational activities when needed. Skills & Experience * CPC qualified (essential). * Proven experience in transport, logistics, or pallet network operations. * Strong knowledge of transport compliance and health & safety legislation. * Experience managing large operational teams. * Demonstrable P&L and budget management experience. * Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills. * Commercially aware with a focus on performance and continuous improvement. Personal Attributes * Strong leader who leads by example. * Hands-on and willing to "get stuck in" when required. * Positive, resilient, and results driven. * Able to build high-performing teams and drive accountability. * Committed to delivering operational excellence, safety, and customer satisfaction