Operations Manager
- Banbury, Oxfordshire
- £50,000-60,000 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
Location: Banbury
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 + Bonus (based on OTIF performance)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-5:00pm
Benefits: Free parking, free daily lunch, 21 days holiday + 8 bank holidaysI'm recruiting on behalf of a well-established, second-generation family-run SME with over 20 years of trading experience. This import and distribution business specialises in supplying high-quality products to the equestrian and agricultural wholesale market, with a focus on bulk plastics, equestrian matting, and wheelbarrows.With a close-knit team of around 10 people, this is a business built on strong values, adaptability, and a shared drive to continuously improve. After a recent rebrand and investment in new systems (Unleashed ERP + Phocas reporting), they're now looking for an experienced, proactive Operations Manager to help take them to the next level.The RoleThis is a hands-on, varied role where you'll be responsible for the full end-to-end supply chain and operations process. From forecasting and freight to supplier negotiation and team leadership, you'll be at the centre of everything that makes this lean operation tick.You'll be:
- Overseeing all operational activity, including supply chain, stock forecasting, freight management, and goods in/out
- Managing supplier relationships, contracts, pricing, and sourcing
- Working closely with the warehouse and sales teams to keep communication flowing across the business
- Implementing improvements that increase OTIF (currently at 80%, with a goal of 95-98%)
- Using the ERP system (Unleashed) and Phocas reports to drive data-led decisions
- Being a visible, proactive presence - jumping in to help with QC, booking in containers when needed or other operational /warehouse duties
- Previous experience in an operational or supply chain management role, ideally within import/distribution
- A proactive mindset - always looking to solve problems before they arise
- Strong communication skills - able to engage confidently with warehouse teams, sales, and suppliers alike
- Hands-on, sleeves-rolled-up leadership style
- A knack for process improvement and cost-saving without cutting corners
- Confidence working with ERP and reporting systems (Unleashed experience a plus, but not essential)
- £50,000-£60,000 base salary
- Performance bonus tied to OTIF targets
- Monday to Friday, 7:30am-5:00pm schedule
- Free lunch provided daily
- Free on-site parking
- 21 days holiday + bank holidays