As a Warehouse Manager you will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the warehouse facility, ensuring that all warehouse processes are efficient and effective. This involves managing staff, implementing safety protocols, monitoring inventory levels, and maintaining accurate records. You will also be responsible for organising the safe and efficient receipt, storage and despatch of warehoused goods, and maintaining compliance with all regulatory requirements.

A warehouse is a vital part of the supply chain process, you'll manage people, processes and systems in order to ensure goods are received and dispatched appropriately, and that productivity targets are met.

Main duties and responsibilities

Warehouse Managers are responsible for organising the efficient and safe storage and dispatch of warehoused products. Other duties and responsibilities include:

• Oversee, manage and coordinate all aspects of the warehouse, including inventory management, receiving, shipping, order fulfilment, quality control and dispatch of goods.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all warehouse activities, ensuring that all procedures follow industry regulations.
• Manage a team of warehouse employees, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Communicate with customers, suppliers, and transport companies.
• Use space and mechanical handling equipment efficiently, making sure quality, budgetary targets and environmental objectives are met.
• Meet regularly with warehouse leads to minimise losses and insurance risks by assessing, analysing, and developing actionable plans for minimising maturation losses, checking stocks, improving productivity and implementing the right bottling plan to satisfy client and HMRC regulations.
• Monitor inventory levels, including conducting regular audits and cycle counts to ensure accuracy. Use real-time data collection to increase accuracy and lower labour costs. Maintain accurate records of inventory, shipping, and receiving.
• Follow all applicable regulations regarding taxation, occupational safety, and the environment and ensure that all employees are trained in proper safety procedures.
• Follow all safety procedures for the site. Encourage everyone in the warehouse to always be striving to do better. Control the number of workers needed to complete tasks and the amount of machinery used in the warehouse.
• Inspecting and approving the quality and quantity of goods or equipment received and shipped out. Drawing samples to check on the integrity and maturation of casks and monitoring bottled stocks.
• Complete sample and cask re-gauging demands and bottling requirements, as well as handling bottled stock and cask handling duties, monitoring low cask utilisation, reviewing cask stock within warehouses, and identifying bottling requirements.
• Enforcing health standards, safety and security procedures, compliance with all warehousing, handling and shipping legislation requirements.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as production and sales, to ensure timely delivery of products.
• Participate in budget planning and cost control measures to ensure efficient use of resources.
• Continuously evaluate and improve warehouse processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

Skills and experience

A Warehouse Manager in the Scotch Whisky industry will need to demonstrate a combination of leadership, communication, industry knowledge, regulatory compliance, and technology skills, along with experience in warehouse management and a relevant educational background. Typical skills and experience required include:

• At least 5 years of experience in warehouse management, with a strong knowledge of warehouse management systems and inventory management best practices.
• An understanding of HMRC and H&S, as well as applicable qualifications like the IOSH Managing Safely. You will also have a deep knowledge of environmental regulations.
• Excellent leadership skills and be able to effectively communicate with staff, superiors, and other departments within the organisation. Strong problem-solving skills are also essential.
• Experience in the food and beverage industry, with a specific focus on the Scotch Whisky industry.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and warehouse management software.
• Experience operating heavy machinery and be certified to operate a forklift. The candidate should also have knowledge of safety protocols and be able to ensure a safe work environment for all employees.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with a strong attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Working Conditions: A Warehouse Manager will work in a warehouse environment, which may be noisy and dusty. The manager may need to work extended hours during peak seasons, including weekends and holidays. The manager may also need to lift heavy objects and operate heavy machinery. Safety equipment, including hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots, will be required.

Qualifications Required

• A bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management, or related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in warehouse management, preferably in the food and beverage industry.
• An understanding of HMRC and H&S, as well as applicable qualifications like the IOSH Managing Safely.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and warehouse management software.
• Forklift certification and experience operating heavy machinery preferred.

Salary: The salary for this position will vary depending on experience and qualifications.

A Warehouse Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of a warehouse in the Scotch Whisky industry. To be successful you will need to have a strong knowledge of warehouse management systems, inventory management best practices, and regulatory requirements. You must also possess excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, and be able to work in a fast-paced environment.

If you are interested in becoming a Warehouse Manager in the Scotch Whisky industry the following resources may help:

1. Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) offers a range of qualifications in areas such as logistics, supply chain management, and warehousing that can help you develop the skills and knowledge required for a Warehouse Manager role in the Scotch Whisky industry.
2. Institute of Supply Chain Management (IoSCM): The IoSCM is a professional body for supply chain management that offers a range of qualifications, including a Level 5 Diploma in Logistics and Transport, which can help you develop the skills needed for a Warehouse Manager role in the Scotch Whisky industry.
3. The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) is a professional body for individuals working in logistics and transport. They offer a range of qualifications, including the Level 5 Professional Diploma in Logistics and Transport, which can provide you with the skills and knowledge needed for a Warehouse Manager role in the Scotch Whisky industry.
4. Whisky Magazine is a publication that covers the Scotch Whisky industry. Reading this magazine can help you stay up to date on trends and developments in the industry.
5. LinkedIn is a professional networking platform where you can connect with other professionals in the Scotch Whisky industry. Joining industry groups and participating in discussions can help you expand your knowledge and network.

These resources, can help you gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful Warehouse Manager in the Scotch Whisky industry.