Founded in 2005, Pallet Plus became part of the Expect Distribution Group in 2023. We provide reliable palletised distribution as part of a wider, customer-focused logistics network. Known for our friendly, down-to-earth culture, we offer a supportive environment where people can grow, develop and build long-term careers.
Expect Distribution is an award-winning logistics provider with over 36 years of experience delivering flexible, reliable warehousing, transport and distribution solutions across the UK. With people at the heart of everything we do, we foster a safe, inclusive and collaborative workplace where colleagues are supported to succeed and grow.
Position Overview:
We are hiring a Transport Contract Manager at our Pallet Plus site, responsible for the commercial and strategic management of transport contracts, ensuring contractual performance, profitability, compliance, and strong client relationships.
This role focuses on contract governance and commercial success rather than day-to-day operational delivery, working closely with operational teams to ensure contractual commitments are met.
Shift Pattern: Monday - Friday // 08:00am - 18:00pm
Salary: £36,000 - £45,000
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: CO7 7JW (Colchester)
Key Responsibilities:
Manage a portfolio of transport contracts (including pallet network, open/closed book and dedicated), ensuring delivery against SLAs, KPIs, and contractual obligations while proactively identifying performance risks.
Own contract P&L, driving profitability through analysis of key cost drivers (labour, fleet, fuel, subcontractors) and implementing cost-saving and revenue growth initiatives.
Act as the primary customer contact, leading service reviews, managing escalations, and identifying opportunities for contract growth, renewal, and extension.
Produce and present regular performance reports covering operational KPIs, SLAs, financials, and service metrics, using insights to drive continuous improvement.
Ensure contracts operate in line with legal, regulatory, and company standards, supporting audits and mitigating commercial and operational risks.
Work collaboratively with transport operations, finance, compliance, and procurement teams to ensure alignment between contractual commitments and operational delivery.
Support the mobilisation of new contracts, customer onboarding, and manage contract changes, variations, and renewals effectively.
Role Requirements:
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Proven experience in transport, logistics, or contract management
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Strong commercial and financial acumen (P&L responsibility)
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Excellent client relationship and stakeholder management skills
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Strong analytical and reporting capability
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Good understanding of transport operations and compliance
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Effective communication and negotiation skills
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Commercial Awareness
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Contract Management & Governance
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Strategic Thinking
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Stakeholder Engagement
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Performance & Data Analysis
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Risk Management
What We Offer:
- Workplace Pension
- Healthcare Cash Plan
- Discounted gym membership through Medicash
- Life Insurance
- Annual Volunteer Day
- Funded Learning and Development Opportunities
- Free Parking
