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 Widnes
At the north-eastern edge of Cheshire lies Widnes, a town of around 60,000 population built on heavy industry, particularly chemicals, where ICI had a huge presence for decades before fragmenting in the 1990s. The chemical industry chose Widnes partly for the plentiful supply of water, just like Runcorn, to which it is joined by a railway and road bridge over the Mersey.
The centre of Liverpool is 11 miles (17 km) to the west, with Liverpool John Lennon Airport just 4 miles (7km) form the centre of Widnes. Although not actually in Widnes, the Jaguar Land rover car production plant is just outside the town in Halewood, and it has been a large employer of people from Widnes. For decades the plant was owned by Ford, and the locals still cal the main boulevard that passes it “The Ford Road”. Under the new management, the factory is doing extremely well, helped by a local enthusiastic workforce.
Widnes has two musical claims to fame, one certain, one apocryphal. First was the Stone Roses’ Spike Island gig, the pinnacle of the Madchester scene in 1990. The second claim is that Paul Simon wrote “Homeward Bound” at Widnes Station, although Simon isn’t 100% sure himself!
Widnes has retained many of its industrial plants, although they are no longer owned by the giant ICI, and have been taken over by a multitude of companies. The well-connected town is handy for Liverpool, Warrington, St Helens and Runcorn, and has the M62 at its northern point. All this makes it a good place to locate any logistics operations, and indeed, Depot Manager jobs or similar positions have been through our system in Widnes.
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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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