Collections Lead

Pod Talent; Greater London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 60,000

Job description

*This position will be managing a dynamic and fast paced 24/7 live operation, so flexibility with working hours is required.

Pod Talent is the retained talent partner of HIVED and is managing all applications for this role.

About HIVED

At HIVED, we’re steamrolling forward as one of Europe’s fastest-growing startups, and our momentum shows no signs of slowing. Based in London, we are a climate and logistics start-up building the first sustainable parcel delivery network at scale, powered by a 100% electric fleet. In an ever-growing industry where unreliable service has long been the norm, HIVED has been built from the ground up to meet the demands of modern consumers and disrupt parcel delivery and provide an outstanding customer experience.

Already trusted by leading international brands such as Zara, Uniqlo, ASOS, Nespresso and more, we are solidifying our position as the leaders in Europe to tackle this growing market.

Our tight-knit team is made up of ex-Revolut, Amazon, Bain, HelloFresh, ASOS, Apple and Google employees, and we are backed by some of Europe’s leading investors and VCs in climate-tech, logistics and mobility including Planet A Ventures, Maersk Growth, Pale Blue Dot VC, Eka Ventures, Yamato and the British government. We’re passionate about driving innovation and redefining the future of delivery.

Role Overview

As Collections Lead, you will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operation of the collections network, from our customers to our DCs, ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and high service quality. This is a live, fast-paced role that requires direct engagement with collection drivers, management of a team, operational flexibility, and a proactive, problem-solving mindset.

You will oversee and be responsible for developing a 24/7 team and work closely with the Head of Network and Transport Manager. This role involves both day-to-day operations and long-term planning, with opportunities to set up new processes and scale the function.

This is an exciting leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast-moving, high-impact environment and enjoys both strategic planning and hands-on execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Own, manage and develop further the day-to-day running of the collections network, ensuring smooth operations and continuous growth.
• Diagnose, determine, and resolve current issues within the network.
• Plan and optimise collections logistics, including fleet and workforce allocation.
• Effectively manage the Collections team, creating key KPIs and measurables and driving development plans
• Monitor and improve driver performance, efficiency, and cost management.
• Ensure seamless B2B fulfilment.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders (e.g. Transport Manager, Planning Lead) to align collections with broader business goals.
• Oversee budgeting and cost-saving initiatives within collections operations.
• Support long-term network growth, as the collections function expands.
• Develop associates into supervisory roles, shaping future leadership within the team.
• Be available, adaptable and hands-on, stepping in where needed to solve live operational challenges.

What We're Looking For

• 3+ years of experience in a similar role (preferably logistics, transport, or fulfilment).
• Strong people management skills, with experience in leading teams and driver engagement.
• Hands-on problem solver, comfortable working in a fast-paced, live operations environment.
• Analytical approach and ability to use data to drive decisions to build a highly efficient network
• Excellent planning and execution abilities, balancing day-to-day operations with long-term strategy.
• Commercial mindset with a focus on cost control and operational efficiency.
• An ability to seamlessly transition between day-to-day tasks and long-term roadmap activities.
• Strong communication skills, able to work with both frontline teams and senior stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Excel, Google Sheets, and other operational planning tools.

Nice-to-Have

• Experience in transport logistics, fleet management, or last-mile delivery.
• Background in B2B fulfilment or high-volume collections.
• Familiarity with scaling logistics teams and setting up new processes.

Dynamic working environment with a diverse and driven team.

Huge opportunity for learning in a high-growth environment, with progression opportunities based on success in the role.

25 days of holiday allowance plus public holidays.

Subsidised Private Medical Insurance including dental and vision.

Weekly team lunch and regular company socials.

MacBook Air or Windows Laptop (depending on your preference).

Enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption policy.

Cycle to work scheme.

Dog friendly office.