Overview

Responsible for managing courier accounts and the daily operations of the UK Logistics team and supporting heavy goods logistics projects and processes within Europe. Develop and oversee implementation of a framework to ensure all logistics and warehouse procedures comply with H&S and customs regulations. This includes overseeing site compliance with the Rider Operated Lift Truck Policy within the warehouse operation, ensuring risk assessments and all H&S procedures are followed in the Logistics team, and actively supporting the Trade Compliance team to maintain AEO accreditation.

Working Arrangements

Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm (Hybrid working available)

Department: Logistics

Location: Hybrid role, based in Ely with home-working option

Who we are

Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We design and manufacture a range of innovative photonics products and operate globally with 22 facilities across 9 countries. In Ely we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

What you will be doing

Key Responsibilities - Leadership (30% Focus)

• Motivate team members and conduct appraisals or one-to-one meetings
• Communicate goals and objectives to the team and allocate resources effectively
• Assist management with hiring and training new starters, and provide performance assessments
• Conduct return-to-work interviews and disciplinary actions (warnings, performance improvement plans, etc.)
• Be responsible for Health & Safety in your work area and team, including review and upkeep of risk assessments, identifying H&S training requirements, and inductions for new team members
• Handle PPE issues and H&S breaches, perform regular H&S inspections and accident reporting, and support or lead accident investigations
• Act as Fire Marshal for your area and team, including hazard checks, fire risk actions, and ensuring evacuation procedures are understood

Key Responsibilities - Functional (70% Focus)

• Manage daily operation of the UK logistics team
• Ensure efficient use of resources (personnel, space, cost)
• Define, implement and monitor KPIs for Logistics
• Support heavy goods related projects worldwide
• Manage UK carriers including onboarding/offboarding and process improvements
• Review freight costs to identify recoverable savings
• Review and approve customs-related charges on courier invoices
• Ensure H&S and customs compliance in logistics operations and stay up-to-date with legislation (PUWER and LOLER)
• Understand the HSE Rider-Operated Lift Trucks Approved Code of Practice and guidance (ACOP)
• Support trade compliance team in export control and AEO topics

Requirements

• Bachelor’s in Business Administration or comparable experience in managing warehouse operations
• Experience leading a small team in an international environment with technical warehouse and transport logistics experience
• Experience in a logistics role with understanding of Customs Controls and Procedures
• Experience with courier account management for local and international road, sea, and air freight
• Working knowledge of lean principles; highly preferred
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to identify root causes
• Proven ability to identify and implement process improvements
• Excellent administrative, communication, presentation, planning and organisational skills
• Ability to lead and drive projects to successful completion
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and able to use PC-based ERP systems with attention to detail and data accuracy

What you will get / Benefits

Opportunities for in-house customised training and development. Benefits include free onsite parking, free refreshments, and an entertainment area in the canteen.

Competitive salary and benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.

Job Reference: THOR-VC-1387

This is a rolling campaign and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. We welcome applications from candidates over 18 years old.

EEO / Compliance We are Disability Confident Committed. Immigration requirements apply; applicants must have valid permission to work in the UK and may be asked to provide evidence during recruitment.