Warehouse Lead Operative

The Fresh Produce Centre is a leading supplier of Avocados, Stone Fruit & kiwis to retailers, wholesalers, and foodservice providers across the UK. Based in Paddock Wood, we are committed to delivering high quality produce, exceptional customer service and reliable supply chain solutions. Working closely with growers, suppliers and customers, we source, pack and distribute fresh produce that meets the highest standards of quality, food safety and sustainability. Our success is built on strong relationships, a dedicated team and a passion for providing fresh produce that supports businesses and consumers every day.

Are you an experienced Forklift Operator (Reach and Counterbalance)? Do you have previous supervisory experience, or do you think you have the skills to manage people? If yes, we have the opportunity for you to join our Warehouse team as a Lead Operative.

As Lead Operative, you will be responsible for the day-to-day running of a designated area, involving the movement of product and packaging, including vehicle unloading and moving product throughout the warehouse. You will need to reach and counterbalance the forklift truck, as you are responsible for all high-level storage access and consolidation of pallets to maximise loads.

By taking a learning and development approach, you’ll train and coach your team members to enhance your team’s capability, ensuring they have the tools and skills to do their job effectively.

You will ensure that communication flows smoothly both ways to management and your warehouse team with relevant information. You will also be responsible for effective implementation of the Company’s Health, Safety and Hygiene Policies through effective communication and management of designated work practices and team behaviours.

As a Warehouse Lead Operative, you will be conscious of minimising waste and maximising labour utilisation. You will also share your ideas and improvement plans on cost-saving and better ways of working.

Our perfect Lead Operative would have:

• Experience as a reach and counterbalance forklift truck operator.
• Experience working in a ‘pick to order’ high-volume operating environment.
• Good communication skills with good English literacy and numeracy skills.
• Self-motivated and work on own initiative.
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills with ability to work under pressure and to meet tight deadlines.
• Supervisory/leadership experience in a similar environment with ability to give clear instructions to a diverse group and get the best out of your team by supporting and coaching others.
• Positive behaviours and professionalism, even in difficult situations or when executing unpopular/tough decisions.
• To be adaptive and flexible to drive continuous improvement.
• To be enthusiastic, self-confident and self-motivated.
• SAP experience (desirable).

The hours you would work:

• A 4 on 2 off shift pattern of 45 hours per week, 7 am-6 pm.
• Company Pension (Auto-enrolment).

Standard company Benefits:

• MediCash Plan - Level 1.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Imagination Library.
• Complimentary Eye Tests / Glasses (For VDU use).
• Season Ticket Loans.
• Enhanced Occupational Parental Pay.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Life Assurance (Salary multiple x1).
• 6.6 weeks holiday.