Job Description

WAREHOUSE LEAD - West Sussex Office Furniture Ltd - Chichester

About Us

West Sussex Office Furniture Ltd is a leading manufacturer and distributor of commercial office and educational furniture based in Chichester. We pride ourselves on quality products and efficient operations to meet our customers' needs.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Warehouse Lead to take full ownership of our warehouse operations. This is a key role requiring someone who can independently manage all aspects of warehouse organisation, efficiency, and productivity. You will organise and optimise warehouse systems, manage agency workers during peak periods as required, and provide essential support to the Transport Manager. This is an excellent opportunity for a self-motivated professional looking for genuine responsibility and career development.

Key Responsibilities

Warehouse Organisation & Optimisation

Take complete ownership of warehouse layout, organisation, and efficiency

Implement and maintain efficient storage strategies to maximise space utilisation

Establish and manage inventory systems to ensure optimal stock placement and accessibility

Create and maintain organised warehouse procedures and workflows

Continuously review and improve warehouse processes for maximum efficiency

Maintain comprehensive product location records and system accuracy

Ensure all warehouse areas are well-organised, clean, and safe at all times

Daily Warehouse Operations

Load and unload delivery vehicles efficiently and safely

Pick, pack, and prepare orders for dispatch with accuracy and attention to detail

Operate warehouse equipment including counterbalance forklifts and pallet trucks

Ensure products meet quality standards through rigorous quality control processes before dispatch

Manage the order fulfilment process for accurate and timely packing and distribution

Oversee inventory management, product distribution, and stock level monitoring

Take responsibility for meeting all customer deadlines and delivery schedules

Agency Staff Management

Manage agency workers during busy periods as and when required

Provide clear instructions and induction to agency staff on warehouse procedures

Monitor agency worker performance and productivity during their assignments

Ensure agency workers strictly adhere to health and safety protocols and company standards

Communicate workforce requirements and feedback to management

Maintain flexibility in staffing levels based on operational demand

Support to Transport Manager

Provide reliable cover for the Transport Manager during absences

Assist with creating and optimising loading schedules and delivery routes

Support logistics planning and coordination

Collaborate closely with the Transport Manager on operational decisions

Step into Transport Manager responsibilities when required

Administrative & Systems

Utilise internal systems to track inventory, investigate order details, and generate comprehensive reports

Prepare and organise all delivery documentation with accuracy and professionalism

Maintain detailed records of warehouse operations, inventory levels, and order processing

Handle administrative procedures and maintain organised filing and documentation systems

Produce performance reports and operational analysis for management review

Manage correspondence and maintain accurate records

Update and maintain warehouse management systems and databases

Safety, Quality & Maintenance

Follow all health and safety protocols and wear provided PPE at all times

Conduct routine inspections of warehouse equipment (forklifts, pallet trucks, etc.)

Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised working environment

Adhere to manual handling guidelines and safety procedures

Ensure all agency workers comply with health and safety requirements

Report and address any maintenance issues or equipment faults promptly

Requirements - Essential Qualifications

Counterbalance Forklift License (or willingness to obtain with our training)

Proven warehouse experience with demonstrated ability to organise and optimise operations

PC literacy including proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and warehouse management systems

Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including manual handling (training and reasonable adjustments provided where appropriate)

Strong work ethic and commitment to quality work

Excellent timekeeping and reliability

Excellent communication and organisational skills

Proven ability to work independently and take ownership of responsibilities

Personal Attributes We're Looking For

Self-motivated with a strong drive to organise and improve warehouse operations

Proactive problem-solver who takes ownership of challenges

Meticulous attention to detail and exceptional organisational skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and work efficiently under pressure

Professional and reliable approach to meeting customer deadlines

Flexibility and understanding that warehouse operations can have busy and quiet periods

Strong work ethic and commitment to excellence

Desirable (But Not Essential)

Experience in furniture manufacturing/distribution

Advanced administrative or office management experience

Experience managing temporary or agency staff

Familiarity with warehouse management software

Previous experience supporting management or supervisory roles

Working Conditions

Hours:

Monday - Friday 40-hour week (8 hours/day)

Schedule:

Flexible between 7am and 6pm

Overtime:

Required when necessary to meet customer deadlines

Breaks:

1-hour unpaid lunch break

Start Date:

ASAP

Our Commitment

We are committed to maintaining a healthy work-life balance for our team while meeting customer needs. While warehouse operations can be demanding during peak periods, we ensure all overtime is properly compensated and planned where possible.

Benefits Package

28 days holiday

On-site parking

Company pension scheme

Health & wellbeing support services

PPE provided

Allowance towards safety footwear

Company events

How to apply

If you are a self-motivated, highly organised individual who thrives on taking ownership, managing warehouse operations independently, and supporting management, we want to hear from you.

Please submit your CV detailing any relevant experience.

West Sussex Office Furniture Ltd is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 31,200.00 per year

Work Location: In person