Distribution Operations Manager

Storage & Distribution Operations Manager Location: Heathrow (LHR), Hounslow, UK Sector: Engineering / Supply Chain / Logistics Employment Type: Full Time Overview Our client, a major global aviation organisation, operates a high-volume, 24/7 engineering and logistics environment supporting aircraft maintenance across an international network. Their Storage & Distribution function is the critical bridge between Supply Chain and Engineering, responsible for the safe, compliant, and timely movement of approximately 700,000 parts per year. They are seeking a Storage & Distribution Operations Manager to lead multi‑site engineering stores operations, oversee the secure handling of high–value aircraft parts and tooling, and drive a transformation programme focused on capacity, technology, and continuous improvement. This is a leadership role at the heart of engineering operations—ideal for someone who can inspire teams, embed accountability, and deliver operational excellence in a highly regulated environment. What You’ll Do Operational Leadership Lead Storage & Distribution operations across multiple facilities, ensuring the efficient receipt, storage, and issue of aircraft parts and tooling. Support a 24/7/365 operation with a team of 50 colleagues across four shifts, each overseen by an experienced supervisor. Ensure the timely and compliant flow of materials required for global aircraft maintenance activities. People & Performance Management Set clear direction, objectives, and performance expectations for operational teams. Build engagement and capability by role‑modelling strong leadership behaviours. Maintain open, transparent relationships with trade union representatives. Compliance & Regulation Ensure strict adherence to Health & Safety, Airworthiness regulations, Quality standards, Customs requirements, Competition Law, Waste Management, and Environmental legislation. Oversee compliant storage and transport of aircraft tools and components. Guarantee accurate inventory auditing and cost‑control in line with finance requirements. Stakeholder & Process Management Report operational performance to senior Supply Chain stakeholders. Manage tooling control across engineering hangars at LHR. Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to maintain service delivery. Deliver improvement initiatives that enhance workflow, capability, and operational efficiency. Help rebuild team capacity and embed new technology and process changes. Encourage colleagues to contribute ideas and participate in shaping improved ways of working. Develop a learning‑focused environment with strong coaching, training, and talent development pathways. What You’ll Bring Proven leadership experience managing operational teams. Strong people management, coaching, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to define and deliver strategic direction for teams and departments. Confidence influencing and negotiating across multiple levels and functions. Experience balancing performance across cost, quality, delivery, and people metrics. Ability to thrive under pressure and manage complex operational scenarios. Strong financial awareness and ability to manage budget‑related responsibilities. Commitment to building a culture of continuous improvement and operational discipline. Desirable Experience & Qualifications HND‑level education or equivalent experience. Qualifications in supply chain, logistics, or inventory management. Understanding of engineering operations and interdependencies between functional areas. Awareness of regulatory requirements related to aircraft components and tool control. What Our Client Offers Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Travel‑related benefits and global mobility support. A culture of continuous learning, development, and career progression. Opportunities to contribute to large‑scale transformation across a major aviation organisation. An inclusive working environment where individuality, innovation, and collaboration are valued. Inclusion & Diversity Our client is dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to be themselves. They welcome talent from all backgrounds and are committed to accessible, equitable, and inclusive recruitment and progression. Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function General Business and Management Industries Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage #J-18808-Ljbffr