Operational Excellence Manager

Help shape the future of sustainable e-commerce at World of Books.

At World of Books
, we’re on a mission to become the planet’s bookstore
. To support this ambition, we’re looking for an experienced Operational Excellence Manager to drive systematic, data-led improvement across our warehouse and wider operations.

This is a senior, high-impact role where you’ll establish best-practice improvement methodologies, build capability at all levels, and deliver measurable improvements across safety, service, cost, and automation in a high-volume e-fulfilment environment.

As Operational Excellence Manager, you’ll be a strategic change leader within our Operations function. You’ll evaluate current performance, identify opportunities, and lead improvement initiatives from concept through to sustained delivery — ensuring improvements stick, not stall.

You’ll work closely with the Operations Director, operational leaders, and our Operational Product team, influencing from warehouse floor to senior leadership.

• Evaluate warehouse and operational performance and define improvement roadmaps
• Embed Lean, Six Sigma, FMEA and structured problem-solving methodologies
• Establish governance, benefit tracking, and performance accountability
• Lead improvement forums and prevent regression through robust standards

• Use data analytics to uncover opportunities and root causes
• Build dashboards, reports, and visual management tools
• Translate complex data into clear, actionable insights

• Lead automation initiatives end-to-end (scoping to optimisation)
• Balance legacy equipment with new technology solutions
• Build strong supplier relationships and deliver clear ROI

• Coach, mentor, and develop teams in continuous improvement skills
• Design and deliver CI training programmes
• Build a proactive, engaged culture of continuous improvement

• Influence across all levels — from warehouse operatives to executive leadership
• Build strong cross-functional relationships and secure buy-in for change

• Proven experience driving operational excellence in high-volume environments
• Hands-on experience with Lean, Six Sigma, FMEA and CI governance
• Experience in automated or semi-automated warehouses or fulfilment centres
• Strong data and analytical capability (Excel, reporting, visualisation tools)
• Exceptional stakeholder management and influencing skills
• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green / Black Belt)
• E-commerce or retail distribution experience
• Knowledge of WMS and warehouse technology platforms
• Established network of automation or solution providers

• Play a key role in a purpose-led business with sustainability at its heart
• Shape the future of our operations with real autonomy and senior support
• Work on varied, high-impact initiatives across safety, service, cost and automation
• Join a collaborative leadership team during an exciting phase of growth

Location: Coventry (regular on-site presence required)

World of Books is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Ready to make a lasting operational impact? Apply now and help us build the planet’s bookstore.