Transport Manager – South East London
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Transport Manager to join our established and fast-paced transport operation in South East London.
This is a key role within the business, responsible for the effective day-to-day management of a fleet of approximately 30 commercial vehicles of varying sizes, alongside a small fleet of company cars. You will play a central role in ensuring that our transport operation remains safe, compliant, efficient and commercially effective, while supporting the continued growth and development of the business.
We are looking for a confident and capable transport professional who can take ownership of the operation, make sound decisions under pressure and build strong working relationships with drivers, customers, colleagues and senior management.
The Role
As Transport Manager, you will oversee the daily planning and coordination of transport activities, ensuring work is allocated effectively and delivered to the required standards.
The successful candidate will be a hands-on manager who is comfortable working alongside drivers and operational teams, while also managing the administrative, compliance and commercial demands of the position.
You will be expected to communicate confidently with a broad range of stakeholders and act as a key link between transport, warehouse/production operations and Head Office.
Key Responsibilities
- Take overall responsibility for the day-to-day coordination and management of the transport operation.
- Allocate daily work across a fleet of approximately 25 commercial vehicles and company cars, ensuring resources are used efficiently.
- Act as the primary point of contact for drivers, providing direction, support and operational guidance.
- Conduct driver briefings and debriefings, ensuring clear communication of operational requirements.
- Maintain high standards of driver performance, conduct and professionalism.
- Monitor vehicle defects, driver infringements and other compliance-related matters, ensuring appropriate action is taken promptly.
- Maintain a safe, roadworthy and well-presented fleet in line with company standards and legal requirements.
- Ensure all transport activities comply with relevant legislation, company policies and FORS requirements.
- Promote a strong Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) culture throughout the transport operation.
- Lead and manage investigations relating to operational incidents, accidents and other transport-related issues.
- Work closely with warehouse and production management to ensure transport activities support wider operational objectives.
- Manage departmental administration, including rotas, holiday planning, absence management, recruitment and disciplinary processes.
- Assist with the preparation and raising of purchase orders and maintain accurate transport records.
- Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, service levels and overall fleet performance.
- Liaise with Head Office and other internal departments as required.
- Support the continued development and growth of the transport function.
About You
We are looking for an experienced transport professional with a proven track record in a similar management position. You will be commercially aware, customer focused and able to balance operational priorities with compliance, safety and service requirements.
You will need to demonstrate:
- Previous experience working as a Transport Manager in a busy distribution environment.
- A valid Transport Manager CPC / Certificate of Professional Competence.
- Strong knowledge and practical experience of transport compliance.
- FORS experience is essential.
- Previous experience managing multi-drop distribution operations.
- Excellent geographical knowledge.
- Strong communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent planning, organisational and time-management abilities.
- The confidence to make decisions independently and take ownership of operational issues.
- A proactive, resilient and solutions-focused approach.
- The ability to remain calm and effective when working under pressure.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards.
- The ability to work effectively with people at all levels of the organisation.
- A practical, hands-on management style and the ability to build positive relationships with drivers and operational teams.
Lorry Loader experience would be advantageous.
What We Offer
This is an excellent opportunity to join an established and successful business operating within its specialist market. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to make a genuine impact on the transport operation, contribute to the company's continued growth and develop their own career within a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
We are looking for someone who wants to build a long-term career, take ownership of their role and become an integral part of the wider business.
If you have the experience, drive and leadership qualities required to take on this challenging and rewarding position, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
