Managing a team of 6 direct reports and approximately 140 indirect reports.
The role oversees all warehouse and gateway cargo activities, ensuring the safe, compliant and efficient handling of import and export airfreight. Operating within a highly regulated environment, you will ensure compliance with aviation security, dangerous goods, GDP/MHRA and health & safety requirements while maintaining high standards of operational performance and customer service. You will lead a large operational team within a complex, unionised environment and work closely with internal departments, regulatory authorities and customers to deliver operational excellence. The role requires strong leadership, effective resource management and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the operational delivery of UK airfreight gateway, overseeing all warehouse and gateway activities at the Heathrow depot.
Ensure the efficient and compliant handling of import and export airfreight in line with regulatory, security and operational standards.
Develop and maintain strong working relationships across operational departments to support service delivery and internal and external customer satisfaction.
Act as, or develop into, an Aviation Security Nominee joining the team for the site in accordance with CAA aviation security requirements.
Oversee Dangerous Goods compliance and operational training in conjunction with the UK Airfreight Compliance Manager.
Ensure full compliance with GDP/MHRA requirements in partnership with the site Responsible Person.
Manage operational resources with 6 direct reports across a complex shift pattern consisting of approximately 140 unionised employees.
Maintain high standards of yard and warehouse housekeeping and maintenance in collaboration with the Facilities Manager.
Oversee the management, compliance and training related to Material Handling Equipment (MHE), including supplier management and procurement.
Promote and drive a strong culture of Health & Safety in partnership with the National Health & Safety Manager.
Develop and utilise operational performance metrics to drive service quality, productivity and efficiency.
Champion continuous improvement initiatives and support the implementation of new technologies as part of the First Choice programme.
Foster an engaged and communicative working environment while maintaining clear routines, standards and operational discipline.
Ensure all operational activities and interactions comply with the Company Code of Conduct and all relevant compliance requirements, including anti-corruption policies.
Contribute to and support continuous improvement initiatives across the operation. Skills and Experience:
Highly self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet operational deadlines.
Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience managing large teams within a unionised environment.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively at all levels of the organisation.
Strong knowledge of freight forwarding operations and airfreight import/export processes.
Experience operating within regulated environments, including Aviation Security, Dangerous Goods by Air, ADR and GDP/MHRA requirements.
Strong analytical capability with the ability to interpret operational data and develop meaningful performance metrics.
Commercial awareness with experience managing operational budgets and understanding P&L performance.
Confidence to challenge existing processes constructively and drive operational improvements.
Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances including 5-year referencing, DBS and Counter Terrorism Check (CTC).
Good knowledge of Microsoft products, Cargowise, Atlas and ICE would be an advantage
Salary description
£55000.00 - £65000.00 per year