Distribution General Manager, Coventry National Distribution Centre
Our key responsibility is to ensure that a positive and proactive relationship exists with all internal and external customers, and that the Distribution Centre operates at optimum service and efficiency levels.
My job changes from day-to-day but generally I oversee the operation of the site both logistically and financially. I joined straight from school in 1997 and started as an Operative loading vehicles. Then I did a variation of roles such as Inventory Clerk and Picker. My first taste of management was as an Inventory and Shift Supervisor.
I knew The Co-operative Group had a good reputation for being a supportive employer and that they could offer me a long-term career. I also knew of their ethics and beliefs and wanted to be part of something brilliant where your work can really make a difference.
Skills-wise I’m definitely good at engaging with people, building up teams, identifying other people’s skills and developing their capability. I also enjoy forecasting and planning - here I have to think laterally to forecast risks and then put measures in place to deliver on service level agreements.
Recently I’ve been promoted to General Manager from Warehouse Operations Manager and in the last 12 months I’ve been on tour around the business. This has included a secondment as a Distribution Manager, which helped me to develop financial skills and a deeper insight to transport legislation. It also gave me a broader knowledge of the complexities of a distribution centre.
My greatest achievement was assisting in the set up of the Coventry Distribution Centre. This was The Co-operative’s first ‘super’ Distribution Centre - double the size of our others. Because it was the first of its kind, it was stressful at times, but I managed to drive the team forward to ensure it became one of the cleanest and most productive depots in the country.
Although I’ve not worked for any other retailer, I know that The Co-operative is different. Here it isn’t just about the commercial aspect - ethical retailing is a fundamental part of everything we do – for example we have Fairtrade coffee in all of our vending machines. We’re pioneers. We’re always the first to do something and I love being a part of that.