Freightliner is the UK's largest maritime intermodal logistics operator, transporting containers from all major deep-sea ports to our national network of inland terminals, as well as a leading operator in the UK Heavy Haul rail freight market. Freightliner has operations across Europe offering both Intermodal and Heavy Haul rail freight services seamlessly connecting European countries and the UK.
In the UK the Freightliner Group operates under a number of legal entities including, Freightliner Ltd, Pentalver Transport Ltd, and Pentalver Cannock Ltd.
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
This is a permanent role ideally located at Eastleigh- alternatively Ipswich, Tilbury, London Gateway.
The Local Operations Manager (Driver) is accountable for the day‑to‑day welfare, people management, attendance, and engagement of a designated driver workforce, ensuring staff are supported, compliant, and effectively managed throughout the employment lifecycle.
The role provides visible, consistent leadership and ensures that driver welfare, conduct, attendance, and performance issues are managed proactively and lawfully.
The Local Operations Manager does not own or manage driver technical competence, assessments, or certification. These responsibilities sit with the Production Manager. Close collaboration is required where welfare and competence intersect (e.g. post‑incident care).
THE ROLE
A. Driver Welfare & Chain of Care (Primary Accountability)
Line management of drivers, ensuring welfare matters are addressed to conclusion
Conduct sickness and welfare contact within 24 hours of absence
Complete Return‑to‑Work interviews following all absences
Develop and manage phased return‑to‑work plans
Manage MFA placement, monitoring, and escalation
Liaise with HR and Occupational Health to ensure timely referrals and action plans
Ensure safeguarding, dignity, and confidentiality are always maintained.
B. Attendance, Conduct & Performance Management
Actively manage attendance, poor performance, and conduct issues
Apply disciplinary and grievance procedures in line with company policy and agreements
Conduct and document formal and informal reviews and warnings
Maintain accurate records and provide evidence based recommendations
Work with Trade Union representatives at local level as required
C. People Leadership & Engagement
Lead, motivate and support driver staff through visible leadership
Deliver regular briefings, safety communications and engagement events
Foster a high‑performing, customer‑focused team culture
Support employee development and apprenticeship engagement where applicable
Ensure equality, fairness, and emotional intelligence in all people decisions.
D. Interfaces with Production Manager (Competence)
Support welfare aspects of competence‑related incidents and investigations
Manage post‑incident welfare, fatigue, and fitness for duty discussions
Escalate concerns where welfare factors may impact competence
E. Operational & Resource Support
Work with rostering to manage efficient attendance and resource utilisation
Minimise reliance on free day working through proactive welfare planning
Support effective train service delivery through robust people management
Participate in on‑call and out‑of‑hours arrangements as required
F. Recruitment & Workforce Planning
Participate in driver recruitment interviews and selection panels
Provide recommendations based on behavioural and welfare considerations
Support onboarding and early‑stage welfare monitoring of new starters
Safety & Statutory Responsibilities
The post holder has day‑to‑day responsibility for:
The health, safety and welfare of all drivers within their reporting line
Compliance with the Health & Safety at Work Act and ROGS regulations
Ensuring welfare arrangements protect employees, rail users and the public
Maintaining a positive safety culture, ensuring behavioural standards are upheld
The LOM‑D must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others affected by their actions at work.
Incident & Emergency Responsibilities
Attend operational incidents when required
Manage immediate and post‑incident welfare support
Liaise with Control, HR, and Production Managers during incidents
Ensure staff involved in incidents receive appropriate follow‑up and monitoring
Participate in on‑call response rosters including weekends and nights
YOUR PROFILE
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Experience managing staff in an operational or safety‑critical environment
Proven ability to manage attendance, welfare, and disciplinary processes
Experience working with Trade Unions
Understanding of Safety Management Systems and Rail Operating environments
Strong interpersonal, communication, and emotional intelligence skills
Qualifications & Requirements
Personal Track Safety (PTS)
Effective Incident Management training
Competence in investigations and evidence‑based reporting
IT competence (e.g. Microsoft Office, operational systems)
Full UK Driving Licence
Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and away from home if required.
Behavioural Competencies
Safety leadership as a first principle
Professional integrity and confidentiality
Fairness, independence, and resilience
Ability to influence and support others
Empathy, emotional regulation, and sound judgement
Our commitment to you, once you join our team, is to foster growth and provide developmental opportunities to ensure you reach your utmost potential.
We are looking for the most committed and reliable individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and experience needed for their roles.
In return we can offer competitive pay, excellent benefits, a competitive pension scheme and a rewarding career in an award-winning team.
