About HATS
Healthcare And Transport Services (HATS) Group provides services for the transport of children and adults with special needs for the majority of the London Boroughs and has operations across the UK in Birmingham and Manchester. HATS also provides high-quality non-emergency and high dependency and mental health patient transport services (PTS) to the NHS, Local Authorities and their associated bodies.
Many of those service users and patients entrusted to HATS care are vulnerable individuals including those with severe learning difficulties, moderate learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning difficulties, complex needs, social, emotional and behavioural difficulties as well as mainstream.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Contract Manager to oversee and manage the school bus operational activities for one of our sites. The Contract Manager will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable transportation of students to and from school, as well as managing the day-to-day operations of the school bus fleet, managing the client and the budgets for the site. This role requires strong leadership abilities, excellent organisational skills, and a thorough understanding of the regulations and best practices in the transportation industry.
Responsibilities
Budgeting and Financial Management
Prepare and manage the contract budgets, ensuring cost control and effective resource allocation.
Monitor expenses, analyse financial reports, and identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising service quality.
Collaborate with finance and procurement departments to negotiate contracts, leases, and vendor agreements.
Fleet Management
Work with the fleet team to manage the school bus fleet, including maintenance, repair, and inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs to minimise downtime and ensure the longevity of the fleet.
Ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to organisational policies.
Staff Management
Oversee the staffing levels, recruitment, training and manage a team of drivers, passenger assistants and administrative staff.
Establish work schedules and allocate resources effectively to ensure optimal performance and efficient operations.
Provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback to staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
Compliance and Safety
Ensure compliance with company policies, including safety, licensing, and insurance requirements.
Implement and enforce policies and procedures to maintain a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and the general public.
Conduct regular safety audits, inspections, and drills to identify and address any potential risks or hazards.
Route Planning and Optimisation
Develop and maintain efficient bus routes to maximise the utilisation of resources and minimise travel time.
Coordinate with school administrators, parents, and other stakeholders to address concerns, resolve issues, and optimise transportation services.
Utilise technology and data analysis to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance route efficiency.
Key Performance Indicators
Costs and revenue against budget
Staff turnover
Client satisfaction
Incident management
Sickness / absence levels
Qualifications
Relevant degree in a related field, but ideally we want people with good relevant work experience.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management, preferably in the transportation industry, with a focus on fleet management.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail.
Proficient in using Outlook, Excel and Transport IT systems and other relevant technology.
Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
Proven ability to manage budgets and financial resources.
Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
This job description is intended to convey the general nature and level of work expected of the Operations Manager. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required for the position. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties as necessary.
Additional Information
HATS is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all its employees as well as maintaining a workforce that broadly reflects the local communities we serve. In accordance with the Equality Act, we welcome applications from anyone who meets the specific criteria of the post regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy, religion or belief or sexual orientation. Reasonable adjustments to the interview process can also be made for any candidates with a disability
Important:
· The closing date given is a guide only. There may be some occasions where we have to close a vacancy once sufficient applications have been received. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
· Please ensure you check your emails regularly as this is how we will communicate with you throughout the recruitment process.
· If you have not heard from us within 3 weeks after the closing date, we regret that this usually means that your application was not successful.
· During the recruitment process your Identity Documentation (i.e. passport, driving licence, visa, etc.) will be scanned and retained.
· HATS are regulated by [the Care Quality Commission – regulator of Health and Social Care in England ] / [Care Inspectorate Wales]
· HATS safer recruitment and selection procedures promotes the safeguarding and welfare of children and adults at risk
· If your role is patient or service user facing, you will be required to have a full enhanced adults and children DBS.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- London SE16: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Leadership: 3 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person
