Depot Manager jobs
Running a logistics depot is often a 24/7 job, and the depot manager need to put in place and maintain systems that ensure key performance indicator targets are met, and that the depot can “run itself” when management is not present (particularly if a shift management system is not in place). While there will be contact with clients, much of the ordering and fulfilment will be dealt with by sales and accounts staff, both at the depot and at head office. The depot manager’s role will be more involved with the running of the actual depot, ensuring the company’s long-term goals are met and keeping within budget.
Where operational change is required, the depot manager might have the freedom and a budget to implement it, although in many cases regional and head offices will assume such powers. The role might also involve hiring staff and ensuring that they continue to perform to a high standard, as well as overseeing security and health and safety on site.
Ultimately, the depot manager will be projecting the company’s ethos and expected level of customer service to the clients, as it may well be his or her staff that they have the majority of their contact with.
The skills required
Successful candidates for depot managerial positions will have a proven ability to run large, complex and fast-moving operations smoothly and profitably. As manager, you might be expected to deal with any issues that arise with customers without taking them to the regional or head office level, so good problem-solving and diplomacy skills will be essential.
You will need to be able to control a budget and keep firm control over the depot’s accounts to ensure efficient and profitable running of your arm of the company’s logistics operation. You will also need to be able to motivate and reward staff under your control.
Depot Manager Jobs in the South West
A region that encompasses Bristol, Gloucester, Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire, as well as the Isles of Scilly, the South West is a diverse area that offers a broad range of opportunities for those seeking Depot Manager positions.
As demonstrated by the ancient monuments like Stonehenge and the Roman ruins in Bath, the South West has been settled for thousands of years. In fact, the oldest complete human skeleton ever found in the UK was discovered in Cheddar Gorge and dates back to around 7150 BC.
Prior to the Industrial Revolution, much of the South West relied on fishing and shipping, particularly in Bristol, a city which harboured vessels that traded with Ireland, Iceland and the Americas. Later, it became known for coal mining, as well as heavy industry.
Today, aeronautics is an important part of the South West economy, and a number of companies have facilities in the region - such as Airbus UK, BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce. There's also Defence Equipment and Support - the MoD's procurement and logistics agency.
Cheese, clotted cream and other dairy products are made in the region, with companies including Dairy Crest, which makes Cathedral City and Davidstow. Other food and beverage manufacturers include Ginsters, Ryvita, Kraft Foods UK and Beverage Brands, makers of WKD vodka. Meanwhile GSK manufactures Lucozade and Ribena in Coleford.
In addition, Princess Yachts, Siemens Traffic Controls, Merlin Entertainments, Endsleigh Insurance, Westland Helicopters and Wincanton plc are all based in the region.
Popular locations
Cast UK’s logistics opportunities
With our founder members coming from the logistics, procurement and supply chain sectors, and our consultants also coming from the same fields, Cast UK understand the needs of employers and candidates alike. As we only deal with these connected fields, we have become a go-to recruitment consultancy for many employers, many of whom trust us to create a shortlist through our in-house personnel management.
Candidates approach us looking for work for a range of reasons, from seeking fulfilment to moving house to looking for a promotion. The positions we offer cover the whole of the UK, so please check out what’s available in your region and feel free to get in touch if you’ve seen something you’re interested in – we might just have your dream job on offer!
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Depot Manager for your business or find you a job as a Depot Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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