Emma Bowden: Distribution Centre Manager

A Job in Logistics

Emma Bowden: Distribution Centre Manager Company: Wincanton

I started my Wincanton career nearly 19 years ago, in 2004, as a Ledger Clerk at the Brockworth LRS Distribution Centre. After moving into a Transport Clerical Finance role, I focused on a finance pathway, studying accountancy. In 2015, I was successfully promoted to the role of Finance Manager. During this time, by having a strong Personal Development Plan (PDP) and receiving valuable guidance from my mentor, I developed my skills in people management by attending ‘master classes’ in industrial relations. In October 2018, I placed myself on the Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship to enable me to open the possibility of a transitional move into operations. This was the ideal platform for me and my development; one which was fully backed by Wincanton. I am happy to say I successfully completed this course with distinction.

In October 2019, a secondment position became available for a Distribution Centre Manager (DCM) role in Middlewich and I jumped at the chance to try my hand in an operational role. I oversaw recruitment, introducing new customers to the contract, the culture and implementation of new ways of working. After a hard but successful transition, I was offered the opportunity to make the position permanent, and in February 2020, I duly accepted. I loved this role, and even though it was an over 200-mile round trip, I am so glad I made this decision as it taught me more than I thought was possible in a short period of time because of the steep journey the site went through. In July 2022, I took the opportunity to change location and was appointed Distribution Centre Manager (DCM) at Hams Hall. This provided me with new challenges and opportunities, focusing my time on our site values, people engagement, the customer relationship, strategic growth and succession planning for our future leaders. As a DCM, my next step would be to work as a General Manager, then work towards Operations Director. Whether that is in warehouse operations, transport or another role within Wincanton, only time and a career discussion will tell!

When you’re thinking about developing your career, you must be up front and have an honest conversation with your line manager. Having a robust and up to date PDP to understand what targets are being set and what you are doing to achieve them is important. Make sure they are achievable and make sure that you understand that you are accountable for your own development. Identify a mentor as their support and guidance will be invaluable in your development journey. I also think growing your network is a great way in improving your stature, showcasing your capabilities and drawing on others who can further enhance your profile.

I am passionate about my continuous professional development. Since moving into operations, I have successfully completed the Level 5 Operations Manager leadership course, the Wincanton NextGen course and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) courses Levels 1-3. I successfully completed the induction for an operative, as I passionately believe this is key to understanding what the team have to overcome on the shop floor. I am also a green belt in six sigma, which supports me in identifying and supporting the Continuous Improvement (CI) function. Prior to moving into oeprations, I qualified AAT Level 3 on my finance journey, which was fully supported by our business. Now, having successfully completed the Operations Manager leadership course and the Next Gen course, I feel that the next steps for me would be to complete one of the degrees in logistics featured at Aston University and to also become a member of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport. I also want to complete my Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) to increase my understanding of the transport side of the role, as it’s vital to have a rounded knowledge of the business.