Location: Exeter Regional Distribution Centre (Chillpark Brake, Clyst Honiton, EX5 2FU)
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: £43,000 - £56,000 per annum
Experience Level: Experienced Management Required
Placement Type: Direct Hire via Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency
At Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency, we specialize in connecting visionary, resilient leaders with high-impact career opportunities. We are proud to partner with Lidl to find an exceptional Warehouse Department Manager to oversee key operations at their Regional Distribution Centre (RDC) in Exeter.
As a Department Manager, you will take full ownership of a designated department within the RDC. This is a role for a strategic thinker who isn't afraid to be hands-on. You will line manage, coach, and inspire a talented team of Shift Leaders, driving operational excellence and optimizing processes to ensure products reach stores without a hitch. Working closely with your Team Manager and fellow department heads, you’ll balance productivity targets with a supportive leadership style that champions your team to reach their full potential. If you want a role with high responsibility, clear career progression, and a culture of mutual respect, this is your bridge to a brilliant future.
Line Manage & Inspire: Take direct responsibility for a department, coaching and mentoring a team of Shift Leaders to help them and their teams succeed.
Optimize Performance: Drive warehouse productivity, streamlining operational processes to achieve peak efficiency and high-quality output.
Collaborate Globally: Work closely with neighboring Department Managers and Shift Leaders to ensure the smooth, cross-departmental flow of the entire RDC.
Support Senior Leadership: Partner with the Team Manager on compliance, daily operational audits, and key Head Office projects.
Manage People & Employee Relations: Handle grievance, investigation, and disciplinary processes confidently and fairly.
Champion Company Values: Maintain a safe, positive, and motivating environment focused on teamwork and efficiency.
Proven experience managing and leading teams to success in a high-volume warehouse, logistics, or fast-paced operational environment.
Natural confidence and an inclusive, open communication style that motivates people at all levels.
Strong organizational skills to manage conflicting deadlines, rotas, transport plans, and cost controls under pressure.
An analytical mindset with a keen eye for detail to spot and resolve process inefficiencies.
Resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Lidl believes in recognizing the dedication of its department leaders with an excellent salary structure and a premium benefits package:
Generous Time Off: 30–35 days of annual holiday (pro rata).
In-Store Discount: A 10% discount to use on your weekly shopping at Lidl.
Financial Protection: A contributory company pension scheme.
Family Support: Enhanced family leave options.
Professional Development: Access to ongoing, top-tier training to champion your growth into senior executive roles.