The role
H.W. Coates Ltd is looking for a confident and organised Transport Planner / Transport Assistant to join our team in Middlewich.
This is a full-time, office-based position working within our busy transport operation. The role involves assisting with the day-to-day planning and administration of vehicle movements, communicating with drivers and customers, and helping to ensure deliveries and collections are completed efficiently.
We're looking for someone who is organised, confident and comfortable working under pressure, with the ability to deal with changing priorities throughout the working day.
Good communication is a key part of the role. You'll regularly speak with drivers, customers and colleagues by telephone and email, so we're looking for someone who is professional, approachable and confident dealing with people.
Previous transport or logistics experience would be an advantage, but we would also consider candidates with strong office and administrative experience who have the right attitude and are keen to learn.
Key responsibilities
Your duties will include:
- Assisting with the daily planning and scheduling of vehicle movements
- Planning and allocating deliveries and collections
- Communicating with drivers throughout the working day
- Liaising with customers regarding deliveries and collections
- Responding to customer enquiries by telephone and email
- Monitoring vehicle movements and delivery progress
- Reacting to delays, changes and other issues that arise during the day
- Updating transport systems with accurate information
- Processing transport paperwork and maintaining accurate records
- Working closely with warehouse and office teams to coordinate daily operations
- Providing drivers with the information and paperwork required for their journeys
- Helping to ensure customer requirements and delivery times are met
- Identifying and reporting problems or service issues
- General transport administration and office duties
- Supporting the wider transport team when required
What we're looking for
We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:
- Previous experience in a transport, logistics or busy office environment
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage several tasks at the same time
- The ability to remain calm and make sensible decisions when under pressure
- Confidence communicating with drivers, customers and colleagues
- Good customer service skills, both by telephone and email
- Good attention to detail and accuracy
- A practical approach to problem solving
- Good computer skills
- Experience using Microsoft Outlook and Excel
- Reliability and good timekeeping
- The ability to work effectively as part of a team
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn
Previous experience in transport planning or transport administration would be a strong advantage but is not essential for the right candidate.
We currently use Roadrunner TMS for our transport operation. Previous experience with Roadrunner or another Transport Management System would be useful, but is not required as full training will be provided.
What we offer
H.W. Coates is an established warehousing and distribution business offering permanent employment and opportunities to develop your skills.
Benefits include:
- 30 days' annual holiday for full-time employees, including statutory holidays
- Additional holiday entitlement based on length of service
- Company pension with employer contribution matching up to 5%
- Death-in-service cover for permanent employees
- Discretionary annual Christmas bonus
- Training and development opportunities
- Full induction and role-specific training
- Permanent, full-time employment with an established business
The person we're looking for
We're looking for someone who will become a dependable member of the transport office and who can be trusted to take ownership of their work.
Transport doesn't always go according to plan. Vehicles can be delayed, customers can change requirements and priorities can change quickly. You'll need to be someone who can think on their feet, prioritise effectively and communicate clearly when problems arise.
You don't necessarily need years of transport planning experience. For the right person, confidence, organisation, common sense, good communication and a willingness to learn are just as important.
Working hours:
Monday - Friday
8:00am - 5:00pm (1-hour lunch break).
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
