Warehouse & Distribution Manager

Warehouse & Distribution Manager Location: East Hertfordshire Full-time | Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm (occasional weekend work required) Salary: c£40K + Bonus + Benefits A major UK food distribution business is currently seeking a proactive and experienced Warehouse Distribution & Facilities Manager to oversee the smooth and efficient running of a 130,000 sq. ft. distribution and office facility. This is a key leadership role reporting into the Operations Manager (Distribution), and is ideal for a forward-thinking professional with experience in large-scale logistics environments. The successful candidate will take full ownership of contracts, compliance, space optimisation, and supplier/vendor management. They will also play a crucial part in access control, building presentation, and ensuring the office and warehouse spaces remain safe, clean, and fully operational. This is a brilliant opportunity for a driven, solutions-focused professional to step into a high-impact role with clear responsibility and visibility across a large-scale site. The business is looking for someone who doesn’t just maintain the present—but looks ahead and shapes the future of the site Key Responsibilities * Oversee the day-to-day operational readiness of a 130,000 sq. ft. distribution centre, ensuring all warehouse infrastructure, services, and workflows are fully supported from a facilities perspective. * Manage contracts for critical warehouse services such as cleaning, waste removal, pest control, dock door servicing, and security systems, ensuring all providers meet performance standards and compliance requirements. * Lead layout optimisation projects to improve space utilisation, stock flow, staff movement, and safety across both warehouse and office areas. * Ensure access control systems are maintained and operating correctly across the site, supporting security and operational control for both goods and personnel. * Monitor the condition of key warehouse assets (e.g., racking, dock levellers, floors, lighting) and coordinate planned maintenance and repair work via contractors. * Ensure the warehouse floor, canteens, and office areas are consistently clean, safe, and operational, supporting productivity and compliance at all times. * Manage and develop a team of 2 staff responsible for coordination and general upkeep across the site. * Proactively identify risks, inefficiencies, or potential downtime issues—implement solutions to maintain continuous distribution operations. * Deliver accurate reporting on building condition, contract performance, safety compliance, and facilities budgets. The Ideal Candidate * Demonstrates strong experience in facilities management within warehouse/distribution or logistics environments—ideally in a large-scale operation. * Comfortable working strategically—focused on managing contracts, vendors, safety, layout, and general building upkeep rather than performing maintenance tasks. * A confident problem-solver who takes initiative and implements long-term, effective solutions. * Excellent communicator with strong organisational and leadership skills. * Technically aware of building systems (HVAC, electrical, fire safety), with the ability to oversee maintenance carried out by contractors. * Understands compliance, safety legislation, and sustainability goals. * First Aid and Fire Marshall training advantageous. Qualifications * NEBOSH, IOSH or BIFM Level 4+ * Degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Logistics, or similar (preferred)