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.

Transformation & Continuous Improvement

• 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.