Flow Room Lead
About this role
Job Title: Flow Room Lead – Automated Distribution Center
Recruiter: Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency (recruiting on behalf of our client)
Location: Symmetry Park, Kettering (NN14 1FQ), United Kingdom
Pay Rate: £51,014 per annum
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full-Time (4 on, 4 off shift pattern operating on 12-hour shifts across days, nights, and weekends)
Closing Date: 7 November, 2026
About Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency
At Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency, we connect outstanding supply chain, logistics, and technical specialists with top-tier employers across the UK. We focus on matching talent with forward-thinking, inclusive organizations where professionals are given the platform to lead, innovate, and build high-impact careers.
We are currently recruiting a Flow Room Lead on behalf of a leading national retailer preparing to launch a state-of-the-art, purpose-built National Distribution Center in Kettering.
About the Role
This is a pivotal start-up opportunity for a key logistics leader to join a brand-new, automated ambient/chill National Distribution Center (NDC) set to open in early 2027. Reporting directly to the Warehouse Manager, the Flow Room Lead will act as the operational bridge between planning, engineering, IT, and warehouse operations to ensure optimal system throughput and automated product flow.
Initially, you will participate in automated system testing, engage with internal and external tech partners, assist in recruiting your wider Flow Room team, write Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and build training frameworks from the ground up.
Key Responsibilities
Start-Up & Governance: Build Flow Room processes, write SOPs, establish operational standards, and design onboarding plans for future shift teams.
Team Recruitment & Leadership: Actively participate in recruiting, mentoring, and leading the Flow Room team; conduct monthly 1-to-1s, PDRs, and continuous coaching.
Automation & WMS Control: Monitor the NDC Warehouse Management System (WMS) via KPI dashboards to optimize automated product flow, manage labor planning, and address bottlenecks proactively.
System Incident Management: Oversee automated system/IT incidents with rapid escalation and resolution protocols to minimize operational downtime.
Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Lead shift handovers and daily briefings with engineering, operations, and leadership teams to ensure seamless performance against site deadlines.
Reporting & Continuous Improvement: Provide performance metrics and commentary to senior management, regularly auditing processes to drive continuous improvement, safety, and operational excellence.
Candidate Requirements
Automated Warehouse Expertise: Deep technical experience in automated warehouse operations and automated material handling systems.
WMS/MFS Systems Knowledge: Essential expertise in SAP Extended Warehouse Management (specifically Material Flow Systems); familiarity with SynQ software is highly desirable.
Start-Up Mindset: Proven track record in warehouse start-ups, automated site launches, or greenfield implementations with a strong ability to build order and structure out of ambiguity.
Process & SOP Design: Demonstrated experience writing, embedding, and auditing SOPs and operational best practices.
Leadership & Coaching: Strong leadership skills with experience hiring, training, and building capability within automated control teams.
Technical & Analytical Aptitude: Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, backed by sharp analytical problem-solving abilities under pressure.
Inclusive Values: Dedicated to driving continuous improvement while promoting a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace environment.
Benefits & Perks
Competitive Annual Salary: £51,014 per year paid monthly.
Annual Profit Share: Share in 10% of annual company profits.
Generous Annual Leave: 6 weeks (36 days) annual leave inclusive of bank holidays.
Generous Discounts: Enjoy up to 50% off products for you and a family member.
On-Shift Perks: Free hot drinks while on break and fully paid rest breaks during 12-hour shifts.
Health & Wellbeing Support: Access to 24/7 Remote GP appointments, physiotherapy services, and confidential wellbeing support apps.
Financial & Future Planning: Matched pension scheme up to 7%, colleague share plans, and long-service milestone recognition.
Everyday Savings: Exclusive partner discounts for everyday shopping, leisure, and lifestyle brands.