Implementation Manager

Alloga is seeking an experienced Implementation Manager to lead the operational delivery of a major automation implementation programme within our distribution operations. This is a high-profile, fixed-term appointment providing dedicated project leadership through installation, commissioning, go-live and a structured ramp-up to full operational utilisation. This role sits at the heart of a significant business transformation, acting as the critical conduit between the project team and operational business, ensuring a seamless transition from a manual to a fully automated operation.

If you are an experienced implementation professional who thrives in complex, high-stakes environments, this is an exceptional opportunity to lead a landmark programme from the front.

• Delivering end-to-end implementation leadership across all phases of the programme, from installation and operational preparation through go-live and the subsequent ramp-up to full utilisation
• Developing and maintaining an integrated implementation plan covering scope, timelines, budgets and resourcing, coordinating across operations, IT, finance and external supplier teams to maintain delivery accountability
• Serving as the principal operational interface with the automation supplier, maintaining clear accountability for actions, dependencies, risks and issue resolution throughout the programme
• Establishing fit-for-purpose UAT, cutover, start-up and stabilisation plans, with defined entry and exit criteria, to ensure the operation is ready for go-live
• Developing and delivering a comprehensive operational readiness plan covering processes, people, systems, facilities, safety and contingency arrangements ahead of go-live
• Identifying and managing risks, issues and change impacts, driving mitigation actions and escalating where necessary to protect programme outcomes
• Building awareness and understanding of the new operating model across the business, including the behavioural and process changes required to embed it successfully
• Ensuring role-based training is designed, delivered and validated before go-live, with knowledge transferred effectively into the permanent organization
• Monitoring operational performance after go-live and driving the ramp-up to 100% utilisation, ensuring that operational benefits are realised and sustained
• Establishing clear performance metrics and reporting to track progress, benefits realisation and stakeholder alignment across work streams

Essential:
Bachelor's degree in business administration, engineering, operations or a related field, or equivalent experience 6 or more years of experience in project management, change management, process improvement or a related field Demonstrable experience leading complex implementation or transformation programmes, ideally involving automation, new technology or major operational change Strong integrated planning skills, with the ability to coordinate cross-functional and external contributors across multiple work streams Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the confidence to engage at all levels of the business Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project planning tools such as Planview or Microsoft Project Strong analytical and problem-solving capability with the ability to manage multiple competing priorities

Preferred:
Master's degree in business administration, engineering, operations or a related field Professional certification in PMP, Agile (CSM or SAFe), Lean, Six Sigma, CAPM or equivalent Prior experience in a regulated, logistics, distribution or similarly operational environment Direct experience managing automation implementation or large-scale technology deployment…