Operations Director - Distribution & Logistics

Role overview

An expanding UK distribution business is hiring an Operations Director to join its Senior Leadership Team in Leeds, with travel across the UK. The position is central to the company’s next stage of growth and operational change.

The business operates in a service-led model supplying essential products to the civil engineering sector nationwide. It has grown quickly to around £50m turnover, works through several depots, and is aiming to reach £100m by 2030. Investment is being made in leadership, infrastructure, and systems to support that ambition.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is £125,000 to £150,000, with a bonus and a car or car allowance included.

What the role involves

You will have overall responsibility for end-to-end operations, covering warehousing, logistics, transport, and production/assembly. The role is focused on creating a robust, scalable operating model that can support significant business expansion.

• Shape an operational platform that can sustain rapid growth
• Lead major change programmes, including warehouse management system implementation
• Improve the efficiency of the depot network across multiple UK sites
• Champion continuous improvement and raise operational standards
• Promote data-led decisions and wider technology adoption

Key accountabilities

• Oversee operational activity across warehousing, logistics, transport, and production in three distribution centres
• Create and execute an operations strategy that supports the company’s growth goals
• Deliver infrastructure and systems upgrades, including WMS and automation initiatives
• Strengthen transport planning and depot performance across the network
• Manage KPI outcomes such as DIFOT, cost performance, and customer experience
• Coach, lead, and build high-performing operational teams
• Deliver strategic projects on schedule and within budget

Candidate profile

The ideal applicant is a commercially aware operations leader who brings strategic direction as well as practical delivery capability. They should be comfortable leading in a fast-moving, high-growth environment and passionate about modernising systems and processes.

• Senior leadership background in distribution, logistics, or supply chain
• Proven delivery of large-scale transformation initiatives
• Experience managing multi-site operations in complex logistics settings
• Ability to combine long-term planning with hands-on execution
• Strong interest in technology, systems, and continuous improvement
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced scaling business

What’s on offer

• A high-impact Senior Leadership Team role with direct influence on growth strategy
• Opportunity to lead significant operational and systems transformation
• Chance to modernise a £50m+ business on its journey toward £100m
• Competitive salary, performance bonus, and executive-level benefits
• A collaborative, values-led culture within a people-focused organisation

Additional information

This is a rare opportunity to help shape the operational future of a rapidly growing business. Interested candidates can express their interest for a confidential discussion. Reference: IND25.