Dispatch Manager

Role Overview

The Dispatch Manager will lead and coordinate the dispatch operation within a fast‑paced distribution centre, ensuring that all orders are accurately picked, loaded, and dispatched on time, so that delivery vehicles leave fully prepared for first‑thing departures. The Dispatch Manager leads a team of pickers and loaders, driving performance, safety and compliance while maintaining exceptional service levels.

Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To

• Manage and lead the daily dispatch operation to ensure all delivery vehicles are loaded correctly and ready to depart on schedule.
• Supervise, motivate and develop a team of pickers and loaders, ensuring productivity, accuracy and engagement.
• Plan and allocate labour and resources to meet workload demands, especially during peak periods.
• Ensure all orders are picked, checked and loaded accurately in line with delivery schedules and customer requirements.
• Maintain high standards of health & safety, ensuring safe working practices and compliance with company and legal regulations.
• Monitor KPIs including on‑time despatch, picking accuracy, productivity, shortages and damages.
• Investigate and resolve dispatch issues, shortages or delivery discrepancies promptly and effectively.
• Liaise with Transport, Warehouse, and Customer Service teams to ensure smooth end‑to‑end operations.
• Ensure paperwork, scanning systems and despatch documentation are completed accurately and on time.
• Drive continuous improvement within the despatch function, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Conduct daily team briefings and shift handovers.
• Coach and train team members to improve performance and flexibility.

Generic Responsibilities

• Promote and uphold the highest standards of Health & Safety, including active participation in “Near Miss” reporting to help maintain a safe working environment for yourself, your colleagues, and our customers.
• Always maintain strong security awareness, ensuring company assets and customer goods are protected.
• Present yourself in a clean, tidy, and professional manner, always wearing the correct company uniform.
• Follow the correct procedures for reporting sickness or absence in a timely and responsible manner.
• Ensure appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is always worn, in line with company policy and safety regulations.
• Be flexible and willing to support other areas of APP when required, including temporary assignments in different departments or branches.
• Carry out any additional duties that are reasonable and within the scope of the role, contributing to the overall success of the team.

Company Description

APP Wholesale Ltd has been supplying plumbing, heating and renewable products to independent merchants and trade customers across the UK since 1969. Built on industry expertise, trusted customer relationships and dependable service, we have grown into one of the UK's leading plumbing and heating distributors. As part of Lords Group Trading, we combine decades of industry knowledge with the ambition, energy and opportunity of a growing Group.

We are proud to create an inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds and experiences are welcomed, valued and encouraged to succeed. If you are looking to join a business where you can contribute, develop and be part of a supportive team, we would love to hear from you.