Senior Logistics Operations Manager (Distribution Centre 3PL)

Senior Logistics Operations Manager (3PL and Parcel Carrier Relations)

Immediate Interim (3-6 Months)

Salary Negotiable - Will discuss at interview (DOE)

Northampton

About the Role

We are seeking a results-driven and experienced Senior Logistics Operations Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of our clients third-party logistics (3PL) warehouse operations and parcel carriers supporting both B2B and D2C fulfilment.
This role is critical in ensuring operational excellence, meeting key performance indicators (KPIs), driving continuous improvement initiatives,
and managing vendor relationships to support scalable and cost-efficient logistics operations that meet or exceed customer service expectations.
Our ideal candidate will have a strong background in logistics and supply chain management, with demonstrated success in managing outsourced warehouse operations, carrier management, optimise processes, and delivering against operational and financial goals. Experience in both B2B and D2C operations is a must.

Your Role

Carrier Management UK & EU
Manage day-to-day relationships with parcel carriers across UK and Europe
Lead carrier selection, onboarding, and offboarding processes
Develop and execute parcel carrier strategy aligned with business objectives
Monitor market trends, capacity, and service offerings to optimise carrier mixTrack and report carrier KPIs
including on-time delivery, claims, damage rates, and service exceptions
3PL Warehouse Operations UK
Oversee daily operations of 3PL-managed distribution centres, ensuring efficient inbound, storage, outbound, and returns processing.
Serve as the primary point of contact between the company and third-party logistics providers.
Ensure operational processes are aligned with company standards, compliance requirements, and customer service expectations.

Performance Management & KPIs:
Define, monitor, and report on operational KPIs such as on-time shipping, order accuracy, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock time, and cost per order.
Conduct regular performance reviews with 3PL partners and internal stakeholders to track progress and resolve issues.
Drive accountability and service improvements through data-driven performance management.

Budget & Cost Control:
Partner with Finance and Logistics team members to develop and manage the annual logistics budget, including warehousing, labour, and transportation-related costs.
Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities while maintaining or improving service levels.
Analyse monthly variances and ensure financial targets are met or exceeded.
Vendor Relationship Management:
Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with 3PLs and other logistics service providers.
Lead vendor selection, onboarding, contract negotiation, and service level agreement (SLA) development.
Ensure vendors are compliant with company standards, safety requirements, and regulatory obligations.
Partner with Procurement and Finance to develop and execute Requests for Proposal (RFP's) to identify and select
3PL partners, as required.
Continuous Improvement:
Lead and support continuous improvement projects to optimise warehouse layout, processes, inventory accuracy, labour productivity, and order fulfilment.
Leverage Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies to reduce waste and improve operational efficiency.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., IT, procurement, customer service) to drive supply chain innovation and systems integration.

What You'll Bring:
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations Management, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
7+ years of experience in logistics or warehouse operations, including significant experience managing 3PL partners.
Proven success in managing budgets, vendor relationships, and large-scale logistics operations.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Experience with WMS, TMS, and ERP systems; proficiency with Excel and logistics analytics tools.
Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Travel Required - up to 25%
Flexible work schedule to accommodate virtual meetings with other regions

Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age