Elzbieta Palka

Operations and Returns Specialist with strong warehouse-wide systems knowledge and proven leadership without formal title. Trusted to oversee daily priorities and decision-making during manager absence, while independently resolving complex operational and stock-related issues. Known for analytical thinking, process improvement, and taking responsibility beyond formal scope to ensure continuity, accuracy, and efficiency.

Ready to formalise an existing leadership role and take full accountability for people, processes, and operational performance.

RETURNS CLERK / SENIOR WAREHOUSE OPERATIVE - GREAT BEAR DISTRIBUTION - BANBURY

(2020-12)

• Act as operational lead during manager absence, supporting daily planning, task prioritisation, and issue resolution alongside own responsibilities.
• Manage complex returns, stock discrepancies, and non-conformance cases, resolving issues independently or escalating when required.
• Provide operational guidance to team leaders and operatives on correct system processing, stock booking, and error resolution.
• Apply warehouse-wide and system-level knowledge to assess operational impact and prevent downstream issues.
• Support and guide colleagues through complex operational situations, sharing knowledge and ensuring a consistent, correct approach across the team.
• Identify and suggest process improvements to optimise stock flow, reduce pallet backlog, and improve operational efficiency.
• Support compliance with Health & Safety procedures, quality standards, and accurate documentation.
• Re-prioritise tasks and coordinate workload during peak periods to ensure accuracy, deadlines, and continuity.
• Recognised as a trusted point of contact for operational decisions across the warehouse.

CATERING / FOOD SERVICE ASSISTANT - SODEXO - BANBURY

(2019-12 - 2020-12)

• Delivered consistent service standards in a fast-paced environment with high customer expectations.
• Maintained hygiene, safety, and quality procedures under time pressure.
• Communicated effectively with customers and team members from diverse backgrounds.

WAREHOUSE OPERATIVE - DHL - BANBURY

(2017-05 - 2019-11)

• Accurately picked, packed, and dispatched time-sensitive orders, consistently meeting accuracy and productivity targets.
• Worked independently using initiative to prioritise tasks and meet strict deadlines.
• Supported efficient order processing and compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Maintained focus and performance in a fast-paced, high-volume warehouse environment.

HEALTH CARE ASSISTANT - VARIOUS CARE PROVIDERS - UK

(2012-04 - 2017-05)

• Delivered person-centred care while adhering to strict procedures, documentation standards, and safeguarding requirements.
• Monitored changes in physical and mental health, escalating concerns appropriately.
• Maintained accurate records and communicated effectively with nurses and senior staff.
• Developed strong judgement, responsibility, and resilience in high-pressure environments.

Business and Administration – Level 2 - Business and Administration - Vision2Learn, UK (2020)

NVQ Level 3 – Health & Social Care - Health & Social Care - Qube Learning, UK (2015)

Functional Skills: Numeracy Level 2; Literacy Level 2 - Numeracy and Literacy