Warehouse Section Leader

At Gist, we're proud to be part of the M&S Group, the logistics engine behind M&S Food.

From our distribution centres to our transport operations and support functions, we connect people, technology and expertise to ensure the right products reach the right stores at the right time.

As we continue to invest in our people, technology and network, there's never been a more exciting time to join Gist and help shape the future of food logistics.

Ready to take the next step in your warehouse career and make an impact in a fast-paced operation?

We're looking for a Warehouse Section Leader to join our team, taking a key role in the day-to-day running of our warehouse operation and supporting a team of Warehouse Operatives across your shift.

This is a hands-on, front-line operational role. While you won't have formal direct reports, you'll be a visible presence on the warehouse floor, helping organise the team, setting clear expectations, monitoring performance and making sure the operation delivers safely and efficiently.

We're looking for someone with energy, drive and the confidence to take ownership. You might already be a Warehouse Team Leader or Supervisor, or you could be an experienced warehouse professional ready to take that next step and build your leadership experience.

You don't need to come from food logistics. What matters is that you understand a fast-paced warehouse environment, enjoy working with people and have the ambition to develop and progress.

As a Warehouse Section Leader, you'll work closely with the Warehouse Shift Manager to deliver the operational plan for your area.

• Coordinate the day-to-day activity of up to 25 Warehouse Operatives, ensuring everyone understands the priorities for the shift.
• Take ownership of a specific operational area and help ensure the daily plan is delivered safely, accurately and efficiently.
• Provide clear direction, communication and ongoing feedback to colleagues.
• Monitor operational and service KPIs, identifying where performance is off track and supporting action to improve.
• Coach and support colleagues to achieve operational expectations and maintain high standards.
• Help coordinate resource across the shift, responding to changing volumes and operational priorities.
• Support the induction and ongoing training of new and existing colleagues.
• Undertake Return to Work conversations and support other people processes where required.
• Identify and resolve day-to-day operational issues, escalating more complex challenges appropriately.
• Respond to safety concerns, hazards and near misses and ensure these are dealt with or escalated quickly.
• Champion health and safety and ensure colleagues are working in a safe and compliant environment.
• Encourage colleagues to share ideas and contribute to improvements across the operation.
• Work collaboratively with other Section Leaders, Shift Managers and teams to deliver a strong overall shift.

This is a role where you'll be out in the operation, working alongside your team and making things happen.

We're open to candidates from a range of warehouse and logistics backgrounds. You don't need to have worked within FMCG before, but you will need experience of working within a busy, fast-paced warehouse operation.

Most importantly, we're looking for someone who brings the right attitude, energy and potential.

• Proven experience working within a fast-paced warehouse, distribution or logistics environment.
• Previous Team Leader, Supervisor or similar experience would be beneficial, although we'd also consider experienced warehouse colleagues ready to take their next step.
• The confidence to coordinate and provide direction to colleagues on the warehouse floor.
• A positive, energetic approach and the ability to keep people focused during busy periods.
• Good organisational skills with the ability to manage changing priorities.
• An understanding of operational KPIs and the importance of productivity, accuracy and service.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• A practical approach to problem-solving and the confidence to take ownership when issues arise.
• A strong focus on health, safety and operational standards.
• Experience using Warehouse Management Systems would be beneficial.
• A genuine desire to learn, develop and progress your career within operations.

If you're an experienced warehouse professional looking for greater responsibility, or an existing team leader looking for your next opportunity, we'd…