Operations Trainer (Forklift & Logistics)

Operations Trainer (Forklift & Logistics)

Attractive Salary & Benefits
36.5 Hour week 
Newtownabbey 

 
Who are we?

At Henderson Group, we are proud to be Northern Ireland’s leading foodservice provider. Our group encompasses Henderson Wholesale, Henderson Retail, Henderson Foodservice and Henderson Group Property. We employ over 6,000 staff and have been placed 5th in Ulster Business Top 100 Companies 2024.

We're a family-owned team that cares about our people and the community in which we live. Our leaders care about employees, and our employees succeed together and celebrate the success of others. We are interested in your aspirations, interests and skills and we strive to support and inspire you to do well.

A look into the role
Henderson Wholesale is a leading Wholesaler in Northern Ireland and supplies goods to over 450 stores across various brands such as SPAR, EUROSPAR and VIVO. We source from local farmers, growers and producers and are proud to contribute to our local economy and environment. 

We achieved Gold accreditation against the Investors in People standard framework in 2023 in recognition of people management excellence and our commitment to investment in people.

The Purpose of the role:
We’re looking for an experienced Operational Trainer to bring our training programmes to life delivering engaging, high-quality learning across a range of operational and safety programmes.

You’ll play a key role in building skills, confidence and a strong safety culture, equipping learners with the knowledge and practical expertise they need to work safely, effectively and at their best.

Working as an Operational Trainer you will:

• Deliver practical and classroom-based training in FLT, MEWP, Working at Height, Warehouse & Operational Safety, Mechanical Handling Equipment and other programmes as required.
• Assess learner competence, provide constructive feedback and support individual development.
• Maintain accurate training records, certification and documentation.
• Promote health, safety, legal and compliance standards, including GDPR.
• Build strong relationships with learners, customers and stakeholders.
• Keep up to date with industry best practice and support continuous improvement.
• Contribute to business growth through excellent service and strong learner outcomes.
• Support wider business needs and undertake other duties as required.

Skills for Success 

Joining us as an Operational Trainer the minimum criteria you’ll need is: 

• Minimum of 2 years Operational experience using forklift trucks and/or mechanical handling equipment
• Experience delivering training, coaching or instruction
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Proficient in IT, with a strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
• Full, clean UK/EU car driving license 

The Attributes you’ll need include:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent standard of customer care
• High standard of professional and personal integrity
• Team player with a flexible approach to work

It is Desirable if you have:

• RTITB, ITSSAR or equivalent forklift instructor qualification
• Recognised Health & Safety qualification
• Previous experience of delivering operations training (practical/classroom)
• Knowledge of current workplace regulations and best practices
• Manual Handling qualification

Are we right for you?

As part of this role, it will be important that you feel aligned with the values that we live and work by.

Ambition – We always strive to be better. We seek new challenges and look for ways to do things better.

Customer First – We provide exceptional service. We put customers at the heart of everything and support our communities.

Teamwork – We succeed together. We help colleagues to succeed, and we share our knowledge and skills.

Integrity – We are fair, honest and ethical. We treat everyone with dignity and respect. We are inclusive and champion diversity.

 
The Reward
 
The impact you can make with Henderson Group goes far beyond your day to day. You’ll be part of a business that supports local communities and works closely with charity partners.

You will have the balance necessary to enjoy your job and your life. We will help you to feel proud of what you do and achieve and we will be here to celebrate your success.
 

Our business has been recognised externally for delivering excellence in employment.  We value employee development and heavily invest in our people. 

Benefits include market competitive salary, contributory pension scheme, healthcare, life assurance, employee assistance programme, social club, Reward Gateway Employee Recognition & Discount Scheme throughout UK/Ireland, staff discount (grocery/fuel) at SPAR/EUROSPAR Henderson Group company-owned stores and many more.

This is a full-time position working 36.5 hours per week. Working hours will be 8:45am-4:45pm Monday to Thursday and 8:45am-3:45pm Friday. Hybrid and flexible working arrangement available.
 

If you'd like to speak with us before making your application, our Talent Acquisition Specialist - Joanne McClelland would be happy to have a confidential chat with you about the role on offer - email joanne.mcclelland@henderson-group.com to get in touch. 

*Applicants should note that we reserve the right to apply the desirable criteria if required at shortlisting stage*

Completed applications must be submitted online by midnight Sunday 13th September 2026

We are an equal opportunities employer.