GXO

My current role is leading teams across data, operations, engineering, and focuses on designing and delivering automation and digital solutions that support both manual and automated operations. I work closely with data analysts to build tools that reduce administrative workload for shopfloor managers and improve decision-making, while also being involved in the engineering requirements needed to implement and scale automation.

My role has been shaped entirely through experience rather than formal qualifications. Over the past ten years in logistics, I have progressed through different roles, learning on the job and gaining practical knowledge in operations, leadership, automation, and continuous improvement. This hands-on journey has been central to my development and demonstrates how the logistics sector enables growth through experience and capability. Working on the shopfloor, leading teams, and later becoming involved in automation and data provided a practical education that has been directly relevant to my career. Logistics is a sector where learning never stops, and my development has been driven by curiosity, problem-solving, and a willingness to take on challenges outside my comfort zone.

With a strong operational background, I was attracted to the position because I have always been interested in improving processes and reducing complexity for frontline teams. Automation offered the opportunity to combine operational knowledge with technology and innovation. The role attracted me because it allows me to be involved in implementing and scaling automation while also developing digital tools that support managers and teams across all areas of the operation. The best part of my role is seeing innovation turn into real operational improvements. Whether it’s an automation deployment, a new digital tool, or developing people within my team and not only, the results are visible and measurable. I value being able to combine technology with operational reality to create solutions that genuinely help people on the ground.

A key career highlight has been delivering major operational change under extreme time pressure, including relocating an entire site within 48 hours. Another highlight has been deploying automation solutions faster than originally planned, proving what can be achieved through strong collaboration, trust, and leadership in a fast-moving logistics environment. I think that logistics suits people who can adapt, solve problems, and work effectively under pressure. Through my experience, I developed strong analytical skills, clear communication, and a practical leadership style. Working across different functions and managing change helped confirm that logistics was a sector where I could continuously develop and make a meaningful impact.

My current role is as the Automation Engineering Manager for GXO Logistics UK on the Zara contract. This is an exciting role within a brand-new Inditex warehouse, designed to incorporate cutting edge automated technology to maximize productivity. My responsibilities include leading a team of engineers to facilitate, maintain, repair, and continuously improve all automated systems on site. These systems include a fleet of 500 AGVs, various automated conveyance and labelling solutions and most notably, a state-of-the-art Durkopp smart sortation system which will be the largest of its type in Europe.

Before transitioning into automation engineering, I served as a Marine Engineer in the Royal Navy, working on nuclear submarines. During this time, I gained extensive training across multiple engineering disciplines to NVQ Levels 3 and 4, covering both general mechanical and electrical systems as well as specialized system training. I also had the opportunity to earn several non-engineering qualifications, including Leadership and Management and Coaching and Development certifications from City & Guilds. This experience provided a strong technical and leadership foundation, enabling me to successfully transition into the automation sector and upskill in a wide range of advanced automated technologies, ultimately progressing into a leadership role.

I have worked in engineering throughout my entire adult life and have always aspired to step into a leadership role as a department manager. The opportunity offered by GXO was particularly attractive, not only was it a chance to lead my own department, but it was also a completely new one. This allowed me to build a team of engineers from the ground up. Another major draw was the brand-new, cutting-edge equipment. Robotics and automation are advancing rapidly and being able to work with the latest and most innovative systems was an exciting prospect. I did not attend university; I attended the Marine Engineering Training Group at HMS Sultan and the The Royal Navy Submarine School in HMS Raleigh to achieve my qualifications, and I found my role on the GXO Careers website.

Throughout my career, I’ve developed a combination of technical and leadership skills that made me well-suited for a role in logistics. My time as a Marine Engineer in the Royal Navy gave me a solid foundation in mechanical and electrical engineering, problem-solving under pressure, and working with complex systems, skills that directly translate to managing automated technologies. I also gained formal qualifications in leadership, management, and coaching, which prepared me to lead teams effectively. When I transitioned into automation engineering, I built on these skills by learning advanced robotics and automated systems, eventually moving into a department manager role. The ability to adapt quickly, manage high tech equipment, and lead a team in a fast-paced environment are all qualities that align perfectly with the demands of logistics, especially in an automation-driven setting like GXO.

The best thing about my role is the ability to work hands on with some of the most advanced automation and robotics systems in Europe. As an engineer, I thrive on solving complex technical challenges and continuously improving high-performance systems. Seeing each new piece of technology fitting into the whole of the warehouse to make a streamlined and efficient warehouse is extremely satisfying to lead. What makes this even better is GXO’s inclusive and collaborative culture. It’s a workplace where diverse ideas are valued, and everyone is encouraged to contribute to innovation. Leading a team in such an environment allows me to combine my engineering expertise with a people-first approach, ensuring we deliver technical excellence while supporting each other’s growth

My career highlight to date was serving as Head of Auxiliary Mechanical Systems on HMS Trenchant during its final years of service and being part of its decommissioning ceremony in 2022, which was attended by Princess Anne. Working on a nuclear submarine is an experience like no other. it’s a boat I learned to both love and hate in many ways because of the challenges and demands it presented. Bringing it safely to the end of its operational life was a huge responsibility and a proud moment. Seeing the boat retire after years of service, knowing I played a key role in maintaining and supporting its critical systems, was incredibly rewarding. That ceremony marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and it remains a defining moment in my engineering career.

My role is to oversee all warehouse operations, including inventory control, staff management, and process optimisation. Ensure compliance with safety standards, manage budgets, and drive efficiency through technology and continuous improvement. I am responsible for meeting KPIs on productivity, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. The role of General Manager at GXO offers the opportunity to combine strategic leadership with operational excellence. I enjoy working in environments where efficiency, accuracy, and teamwork are critical to success. This role allows me to take ownership of end-to-end warehouse operations, from inventory control and resource planning to staff development and process improvement. I’m particularly motivated by the challenge of optimising workflows, implementing technology driven solutions, and driving continuous improvement to meet KPIs. Leading a team to deliver high performance while ensuring safety and compliance is something I take pride in. The chance to make a measurable impact on cost effectiveness, customer satisfaction, and overall supply chain performance is what excites me most about this role.

I found my current role through GXO’s internal careers hub. I originally joined the industry through an internship and then progressed to a contract logistics graduate scheme. I studied History & Geography (BA Joint Honours) at the University of Birmingham, graduating in 2013. What drw me to logistics was that I’ve always been fascinated by how the world connects, and geography sparked that interest, especially the way international supply chains fit together like a giant puzzle. Alongside that, I’ve always been comfortable with numbers, which gave me a solid foundation for understanding the analytical side of logistics. I’ve worked in retail and farming, which taught me adaptability and the importance of efficient operations in very different settings. I’ve always enjoyed being part of a team, much like in sports, where everyone plays their role to achieve a common goal. Those experiences showed me I thrive in fast moving, collaborative environments where every day brings a new challenge. That’s why logistics feels like the perfect fit for me.

The best part of my role is the pace and variety. No two days are the same, you’re solving problems, keeping things moving, and working with a great team. It’s busy, but that’s what makes it fun. My career highlight has been winning the UK National Managers People Award in 2021; it was a proud and humbling moment. I earned it by demonstrating drive and commitment as an Operations Manager, successfully balancing my daily responsibilities with LSS project work that delivered significant efficiencies.