Samuel Burge

National Depot Manager (2021 - 2023)

As the Operations Improvement Manager for NPDL I support our Operational Functions by providing Project Management, Performance Reporting and Technical Support as required

• My key focus is on understanding ‘what good looks like' across the industry and applying to NPDL through asset optimization, procurement, process improvement and project management.

During my time as National Depot Manager, I managed the Container Repairs & Sales NZ Business comprising 35 FTE

• I was responsible for the BU's P&L including budget creation.
• I negotiated client rate increases while minimizing costs and improving service such as reducing crucial ISO processing times by 28% for NPDL.
• I managed multiple projects including the rebuild of a workshop, installation of safety barriers, resurfacing of 3.3 hectares & removal of 10,000 tons of soil (+17% storage capacity).
• I drove operational excellence across the CRS Group by providing guidance & training to NZ, Fiji & Samoa Depot Management on industry best practices, particularly in safety protocols, leading to optimized operational processes & improved safety measures.

• Supported the Commercial Team through data analysis, while leading a team of 17 Drivers and managing critical improvement projects for the Regional Manager
• Achieved bin returns & delivery enhancements (20%), yielding cost savings & positive customer feedback
• Created a sustainability tracking system for HomeStar Clients, helping them to attain environmental goals.
• Analyzed client data to identify trends, identify solutions and improve customer experience.

Depot Manager (2019), Client Services Manager - Southern (2018), Client Services Supervisor (2017), & Client Coordinator (2016).

I held multiple roles with the Specialised Group, working across all business units to drive performance & profitability:

• I consolidated the Client Services Function from 3 regional Teams into a single unified National Team with standardised reporting, improving client's experience.
• Prior to unifying the Client Services Teams, I managed the Southern Client Services Teams and then both the Southern & Tauranga CS Teams.
• I ran MetroPort Christchurch (Inland Port) as the Christchurch Depot Manager
• I ran operational projects including the relocation of the Christchurch Depot
• I travelled frequently to cover leave and to run internal & external audits
• I drove cost savings through automation & consolidation (-4 FTE)
• I led SLA reviews & improved processes nationally ensuring consistent service & charges
• I improved our working relationships with various Ports through planning & forecasting to supply in full and on time.

• With 5 years of experience working as 2IC to the Warehouse Manager, I learnt how to manage every aspect of our busy warehousing operation
• We supplied FMCG (Wine, Spirits & other beverages) nationwide
• As 2IC, I trained staff, and oversaw our delivery fleet of four vehicles, offering efficient same-day service to the Auckland Region
• I worked collaboratively with transport partners, couriers, labour-hire companies, and regulatory entities like MPI
• As the business grew, I took on more responsibility and helped manage projects such as the relocation & set-up of our new warehouse
• I also spent 6-months working in our Customer Service Team learning to upsell products and services with proven success before moving on with the company's support to find further career progression outside of this small family-run business.

• EDL was my introduction to warehousing and gave me a variety of opportunities including delivery driving, leading Stocktakes & KANBAN (J.I.T Inventory System).
• Enhanced inventory accuracy by consistently maintaining organized and up-to-date records of all stock items.
• Ensured timely order fulfillment through accurate picking, packing, and dispatching of goods as per customer requirements.