What is the job?

Responsible for managing courier accounts and the daily operations of the UK Logistics team and supporting heavy goods logistics projects and processes within Europe. Develop and oversee implementation of framework to ensure all logistics and warehouse procedures comply with H&S and customs regulations. This includes overseeing site ensuring compliance of the Rider Operated Lift Truck Policy within the warehouse operation, ensuring risk assessments and all H&S procedures are effectively followed in the Logistics team, and actively supporting the Trade Compliance team to maintain AEO accreditation.

Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm (Hybrid working available)

Department: Tables Logistics

Interview process: 2 stage process following shortlisting – First stage: 60 minute Teams interview Second stage: OnSite 2 hour interview

Who we are?

Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

Where you will be working?

It’s a hybrid role, working in our new purpose-built facility in Witchford, Ely as well as your home. Ourpurpose-built facility isjust 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.

What is essential to us…

• Bachelor Business Administration or comparable experience in managing warehouse operations
• Experience in leading a small team in an international environment and some technical experience in warehouse as well as transport logistics
• Experience in Logistics role, with demonstrated understanding of Customs Controls and Procedures
• Experience with courier account management for local and international road, sea, and air freight
• Working knowledge of lean principles and methodology is strongly preferred
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated interest in identifying root causes
• Proven ability to identify and implement process improvements
• Excellent administrative, communication, presentation, planning and organizational skills
• Ability to lead and drive projects to successful completion
• Proficient in Microsoft Office application and able to use PC based ERP systems with attention to detail and a high level of data accuracy

What we would like you to do/ to see…

Key Responsibilities – Leadership (30% Focus)

• Motivate team members and perform appraisals or 1-to-1 meetings
• Communicate goals and objectives to team members and utilise resources adequately
• Assist management with hiring and training new starters, and provide performance assessments
• Conduct Return to Work interviews and disciplinary actions (warnings, performance improvement plan, etc.)
• Responsible for the Health & Safety of your work area and your team members. Including, the review and upkeep of all risk assessments, identifying H&S training requirements, providing inductions to new team members. Dealing with PPE issues and H&S breaches, undertaking regular H&S inspections and accident reporting - this would include supporting and or leading accident investigations.
• Undertake the role of Fire Marshal for your work area and team members. Including regular checks for hazards and issues, completion of fire risk assessment actions, ensuring all people in your area are aware of evacuation procedures and drawing their attention to hazardous practices.

Key Responsibilities – Functional (70% Focus)

• Managing daily operation of UK logistics team
• Ensure efficient usage of resources in terms of personal, space and cost
• Define, implement and monitor KPIs for the Logistics
• Supporting heavy good related projects world wide
• Managing UK carriers including on- and offboarding and following process improvements
• Review freight costs to identify where costs can be recovered
• Review and approve customs related charges on courier invoices
• Ensure H&S and customs compliance in logistics operations and keep up to date with all applicable legislation, such as PUWER and LOLER
• Fully understand the HSE Rider-Operated Lift Trucks Approved Code of Practice and guidance (ACOP)
• Supporting trade compliance team in export control and AEO related topics

What will you get?

At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.

And the benefits are?

Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.

Job Reference: THOR-VC-1387

This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old.

*This is a legal requirement, further information is here School leaving age - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.

-Contributed Pension Scheme -Group Life Cover -Private Health Care -Group Income Protection & more.

Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX or e-mail recruitment@thorlabs.com.

We are Disability Confident Committed

In line with the requirements of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.