Section Manager, Nights

## Opportunity Review: Section Manager, National Distribution Centre (Nights)

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and driven individual to join the John Lewis Partnership as a Section Manager within their National Distribution Centre (NDC) in Milton Keynes. This permanent, full-time role offers a chance to lead and develop a team, playing a crucial part in the efficient operation of a vital supply chain. If you're looking to advance your career in logistics and distribution within a unique, employee-owned organisation, this position warrants serious consideration.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact: As a Section Manager, you'll be directly responsible for ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of stock to John Lewis and Waitrose shops. Your efforts will directly contribute to customer satisfaction, driving sales and profitability for the Partnership. This is a role with tangible results.
• Financial Incentives: Beyond the competitive annual salary range of £36,400.00 - £57,600.00, this role offers attractive financial premiums for working night shifts. An Evening Premium of £3.50 per hour (18:00 - 22:00) and a Night Premium of £4.50 per hour (22:00 - 06:00) significantly enhance your overall earning potential.
• Employee Ownership & Culture: The John Lewis Partnership is a pioneering employee-owned business. This model fosters a strong sense of shared responsibility, reward, and belonging. As a Partner, you'll have a voice, contribute to the success of the business, and be part of a supportive culture that values kindness, respect, and individual growth.
• Career Development: The role emphasizes team development and empowering Partners. This suggests a commitment to nurturing talent within the organisation, offering opportunities for you to hone your leadership skills and support the growth of your team members.
• Structured Environment: The description highlights a fast-paced environment, which is typical of distribution centres. However, it also outlines key responsibilities focused on process, team management, and continuous improvement, providing a clear framework for success.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Night Shift Working: The core hours are 22:00 - 06:00, five nights a week. This requires a significant adjustment to personal routines and a strong commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance outside of these hours. Candidates must be comfortable and able to thrive in a nocturnal working environment.
• Leadership Experience Essential: A proven track record in managing and developing teams is a non-negotiable requirement. The ability to empower employees, manage stakeholder relationships, and support teams through change is crucial for success in this role.
• Fast-Paced Operations: While exciting, the fast-paced nature of an NDC means you'll need to be adaptable, efficient, and capable of making sound decisions under pressure.
• IT Proficiency: Familiarity with MS Excel, MS Word, and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) is essential. If your WMS experience is limited, or you're not yet proficient in these core applications, dedicated upskilling may be necessary.
• Disciplinary Procedures: Experience with disciplinary procedures according to ACAS guidelines is desirable. While not essential, it indicates a level of HR and compliance knowledge that could be beneficial.
• Potential for Vetting: Be prepared for potential pre-employment vetting, which may include DBS checks. While not applicable to all roles, it's a standard process within some organisations to ensure trust and safety.

In conclusion, this Section Manager position presents a compelling opportunity for seasoned leaders to make a significant impact within a highly respected and unique organisation. The financial rewards, coupled with the chance to contribute to a thriving employee-owned business, are considerable. However, prospective candidates must carefully assess their suitability for a night-shift working pattern and ensure they possess the essential leadership and operational skills required to excel in this dynamic environment.