Reverse Logistics Operational Trainer

The Reverse Logistics Operational Trainer is responsible for designing, delivering, and maintaining high‑quality training for colleagues working within the reverse logistics and returns operation. This role ensures all processes—such as receiving, inspecting, grading, repackaging of network recalled products and the inspection and processing of core related units and branch customer claims to enable full recovery of any associated costs relating to a customer claim with our suppliers   are carried out correctly, safely, and consistently.

The postholder will support operational leaders by improving colleague capability, reducing errors, enhancing compliance, and ensuring all training aligns with business standards and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Training Delivery

• Deliver engaging, practical, and effective training sessions for new starters and existing colleagues across the reverse logistics function.
• Provide hands‑on coaching on processes such as item receiving, returns validation, inspection, grading, quality assessment, and repackaging.
• Train colleagues on relevant systems (e.g., WMS, Autopart, returns modules, scanning equipment) and ensure competency.
• Conduct refresher training when processes are updated or performance gaps are identified.

Training Design & Content

• Create clear and accessible training materials, including SOPs, visual guides, videos, training checklists, assessments, and work instructions.
• Work with the H&S team to embed safe systems of work into all training content—manual handling, PPE, hazard awareness, equipment use.
• Update all materials to ensure version control and alignment with current operational processes.

Operational Performance Support

• Support team leaders and managers by identifying skills gaps and coaching colleagues in real time on the shop floor.
• Use data (error rates, returns accuracy, rework levels, process compliance and any manual data collated in the department) to target training interventions.
• Participate in daily/weekly operational meetings to align training priorities with business needs.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure all training aligns with internal SOPs, audit requirements, and relevant legislation.
• Maintain accurate training records for all colleagues, ensuring full traceability for compliance and audit purposes.
• Conduct competency assessments and sign‑off colleagues when they meet required standards.

Continuous Improvement

• Collaborate with operational leaders to simplify, standardise, and improve reverse logistics processes.
• Support pilot programmes, trials, and process changes by training teams and gathering on-the-ground feedback.
• Identify opportunities to reduce returns errors, improve grading accuracy, and streamline workflow.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications

Essential

• Strong experience in a warehouse or reverse logistics environment — returns, inspection, or quality work.
• Proven ability to train, coach, and develop colleagues at all levels.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to make complex processes easy to understand.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to process compliance.
• Confident using warehouse systems and handheld devices.
• Ability to work independently and organise training around operational priorities.
• Ability to work with a variety of stake holders to ensure all data being trained is relevant and up to date with supplier requirements.

Desirable

• Experience creating training materials (SOPs, visual guides, presentations).
• Knowledge of Lean, 5S, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Formal training qualification (e.g., Train the Trainer, Level 3 Award in Education & Training).
• Experience within automotive parts, FMCG, or similar distribution environments.

Core Behaviours

• Team Player: Works collaboratively across warehouse functions.
• Approachable: Builds trust with colleagues to encourage continuous learning.
• Proactive: Spots issues early and takes ownership of solutions.
• Professional: Represents the training function with credibility and confidence.
• Safety‑focused: Champions safe working at all times.

Additional Information

• Some flexibility in working hours may be required to support shift patterns.
• Occasional travel to other sites may be needed.

GSF Car Parts is one of the UK’s leading automotive parts distributors, supplying thousands of independent garages throughout the UK and Ireland with parts, tools, garage equipment and specialist training. The group has over 207 branches nationwide and a turnover exceeding £560 million. Built on the heritage and success of a dozen local brand identities acquired over several years, we have traded as one brand since November 2021. Our branch network is bolstered by centralised support and expertise from specialist departments in key areas such as procurement and supply chain, marketing and national accounts. The business also benefits from integrated IT systems, which include our industry leading catalogue system, Allicat, and access to the Group's national garage programme, Servicesure