Operations Managers play a critical role in overseeing the logistics of companies across multiple locations, ensuring efficient processes, and driving the business toward success. We sat down with Sam Watts, Regional Operations Manager for Atlas McNeil Healthcare (AMH) to discuss his approach to managing operations, the challenges he has faced, and his main priorities in 2025.
What is your career background that makes you so suited to being an Atlas McNeil healthcare specialist?
I have worked in logistics and warehousing, specifically within the medical and healthcare industry, for a period of 26 years. I commenced as a storeman for API (Australian Pharmaceutical Industries) in a variety of roles within the warehouse, finishing as a goods inwards Team Leader. Over a period of almost 10 years at API, I learned a lot about logistics, warehousing, managing people, managing over 4000 SKU’s, over the counter and prescription medications and servicing chemists throughout South Australia. I then moved on to a Warehouse Supervisor role with Cottman Healthcare, who later became CH2, and then in 2012 I made a move to AMH as a Warehouse Manager.
Tell us about your role with Atlas McNeil Healthcare? What is your area of expertise?
My current role is Operations Manager. As a logistics specialist, my role is fundamentally centred around fostering relationships and promoting teamwork, both within the organisation and with external partners. I am dedicated to ensuring that our facilities and warehouses operate at optimal efficiency. This includes maintaining the appropriate staffing levels to meet customer demands, upholding excellent inventory integrity, and guaranteeing that our customers receive accurately packed and timely orders. I take great pride, along with the entire team, in achieving the highest standards of warehouse accuracy which in turn supports our customers, nationally and helps continue their business activity and growth.
What most do you like about your role and why?
In my role, and within operations, no two days are alike. Each day presents unique challenges that can alter the course of my activities. I am constantly engaged in problem-solving, collaborating with customers and teams to identify effective solutions while adapting to shifting priorities. There is always a need for proactive engagement in finding ways to support both our customers and the business. I regularly manage multiple projects alongside the daily operations. I thrive on teamwork and value the collaboration across all departments—Management, Sales, Operations, Purchasing and Accounts—working closely together towards our shared goal of delivering exceptional service to our customers.
When you started with AMH what most surprised you?
That AMH have an amazing, caring, and fun team to work with - within all areas of the business! Like any job, there are good days and challenging ones, however sharing these experiences with colleagues who make you laugh, bring humour and a sense of balance is invaluable. AMH has been my first experience of a workplace that feels like a true family, with everyone genuinely invested in the success of the business and the satisfaction of our customers. The past 11 years in my time at AMH has shown me that the business is dedicated to forming meaningful relationships, not only with customers but also with their staff.
What are some of the challenges the market is facing?
COVID was certainly the most challenging period I have experienced. To continue operations and providing our customers with the highest level of service as our top priority, in an uncertain world with daily shifting supply chain issues related to PPE, which made day to day very challenging. Recently, we have faced significant challenges due to rising operational costs, including increased fuel levies, delivery expenses, increase cost in supply chain, product price hikes, and escalating electricity costs. Our primary objective is to manage these rising costs effectively while minimizing their impact on our customers, ensuring that we only pass on necessary expenses.
What are your main priorities for 2025?
In 2025 I aim to ensure that the operations team of AMH and Bunzl continue their hard work and focus in the areas of safety, innovation, and sustainability. These areas have been a focus of the business for the past few years but there is still work to be done. Bunzl, both internationally and in Australasia, continue to make significant progress in these areas, and I can see the many benefits for our customers moving forward.
What do you expect the big industry trends to be of 2025?
I believe the healthcare sector will continue to expand; particularly as aged care facilities strive to enable more elderly individuals to remain in their own homes for longer periods. The community aspect of the business is also poised for growth, driven by an increase in home nurses providing care and support to clients in residential settings. AMH is well-positioned to offer a diverse range of products and services tailored to the needs of aged care and NDIS providers, supported by an extensive product range and a robust infrastructure designed to meet the requirements of this market.
What’s the biggest challenge facing the customers in the industry?
The cost of doing business is a critical consideration for all customers. I believe that some companies in the aged care sector focus solely on the price of goods and may overlook the comprehensive services AMH can provide. We offer a full suite of solutions, including training, on-site support from experienced staff, exceptional delivery services, cost control measures, set bags of goods, having an impress counter come to side to help a facility handle inventory, and online ordering capabilities—all designed to assist nursing home teams operate effectively.
What’s the biggest lessons you’ve learned over the past 12-18 months?
After taking on an expanded operational role across the AMH and Bunzl business approximately 12 months ago, I’ve learned you never stop learning, and that dedicating time each day to personal organisation and planning is essential for success. Being organised is crucial to me as it provides me with time to engage and build trust-based relationships, with both internal and external stakeholders of the business. Additionally, empowering my team by instilling trust in them when delegating tasks is vital, it gives them the confidence to perform to the best of their abilities.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your customers?
AMH care about our customers. We prioritise our customers and strive to provide tailored solutions to meet specific business needs. Our dedicated national team is committed to understanding our customers and collaborating closely with them to ensure we deliver comprehensive solutions that support their success. AMH is a robust and growing national company who are continually focussed on learning and seeking improvements and innovations across all aspects of our operations.
