Head of the Central Logistics Centre
- Birmingham
- Permanent
- Full-time
This is a truly exciting opportunity to take the helm at Alliance Healthcare UK's new, next-generation Central Logistics Centre (CLC). As the Head of CLC, you will play a pivotal role in the launch, continuous improvement and ongoing success of this world-class, game-changing facility. Designed with advanced automation and cutting-edge robotics, the CLC is set to redefine how Alliance Healthcare manages and delivers medical, health and beauty products to our customers across the UK.The Head of the Central Logistics Centre (Head of CLC) is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the automated system integrating robotics to optimise warehouse operations. Ensuring efficient and effective logistics and supply chain management for medical, health, and beauty products. This role involves strategic planning, team leadership, leveraging automated systems, optimising processes and ensuring the safe and accurate handling of inventory.Responsible for the efficient operational and financial running of the Central Logistics Centre through effective leadership and management, within corporate guidelines and agreed budget, ensuring excellent customer care and being creative in finding solutions to issues. As a senior leader within the site, the Head of CLC is responsible driving the correct behaviours and as result delivering continuous improvement.Principal AccountabilitiesOperational Leadership
- Lead and oversee the launch and day-to-day operations of a brand-new, automated logistics facility.
- Drive strategic initiatives to optimise warehouse processes and maximise efficiency.
- Ensure safe, compliant, and seamless product flow through automation and robotics.
- Deliver continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Build, lead, and develop a high-performing, multi-skilled operations team.
- Foster a collaborative and inclusive environment that champions diversity and professional growth.
- Mentor your team to embrace innovation and deliver results aligned with strategic goals.
- Implement advanced automation technologies to enhance warehouse operations.
- Collaborate with technical teams to optimise robotic systems and leverage data analytics for decision-making.
- Stay ahead of industry trends and incorporate innovative solutions into the facility.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, maintaining product integrity and operational accuracy.
- Conduct audits and oversee quality control procedures to uphold the highest standards.
- Develop and manage budgets, ensuring cost efficiency and profitability.
- Monitor financial performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and deliver on sales and margin targets.
- Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including unions.
- Collaborate across teams to align operations with organisational goals and drive customer satisfaction.
- Champion health and safety initiatives, ensuring a safe workplace environment.
- Lead sustainability programs to reduce waste, energy use, and carbon footprint while promoting eco-friendly practices.
- Proven experience in warehouse operations management, with a minimum of 3-5 years in a leadership role
- 2 years in an automated warehouse environment is preferable.
- Experience in the pharmaceutical industry is highly preferred.
- Excellent leadership, communication and problem-solving skills to develop teams in large, complex 24/7 operation.
- Proven track record in designing and delivering projects to stabilise and develop warehouse operations.
- Strong knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS) and transport management systems (TMS) and automated technologies.
- Excellent organisational and multitasking abilities and the ability to manage within a set budget.
- Proficiency in data analysis and performance metrics including KPIs.
- Ability to solve complex problems and experience of major projects and/or capex investments.
- Strong financial acumen and experience in budget management.
- Ability to build strong and effective relationships across departments, demonstrating a collaborative approach.
- Demonstrates the ability to develop and communicate a clear vision for the future and proven experience of driving significant change projects.
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance and quality standards in pharmaceutical distribution.
- Excellent knowledge in Microsoft tools including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Teams.
- Experience with “Lean” or “Six Sigma” methodologies.
- Leadership, proven experience of leading a function within an organisation, with evidence of building a cohesive team.
- Proven experience of creating and building customer relationships in a profitable and cost-effective way.
- Responsibility to hold the controlled drugs licence (requires enhanced DBS Check) on behalf of the business
- Designated responsible person for GDP (Good distribution practices) [training will be provided]
- Site contact for regulatory bodies
- Working to Home Office controlled drugs standards, GDP green guide, MHRA (Medicines Healthcare regulatory agency)
- Proven experience of leading multiple/ complex activities to deliver the strategic plan.
- Ensuring site security standards are to the expected standard and maintained through engagement through the Head of Security.
- Strong personal influencing and consultative skills.
- Work well under pressure and ‘can do’ attitude.
- High attention to detail which translates into strong, accurate process and achievement of targets.
- Ability to carry out complex negotiations.
- Adaptable with a demonstrated capability to embrace and overcome new challenges.
- Comfortable working in varying temperatures within the warehouse environment.