About Us
We are a growing and forward-thinking logistics business operating across multiple pallet and distribution networks. With a strong reputation for service, reliability, and operational excellence, we are looking to strengthen our leadership team with the appointment of a Transport, Planning & Network Scheduling Manager.
This is a pivotal role within the business, offering the opportunity to take full ownership of transport planning operations and play a direct part in shaping efficiency, service delivery, and long-term growth.
The Role
As the Transport, Planning & Network Scheduling Manager, you will lead the end-to-end transport planning function across a complex, fast-paced pallet network environment.
You will be responsible for delivering efficient, cost-effective, and high-performing transport plans, ensuring optimal use of resources while maintaining the highest levels of customer service.
With full oversight of the daily operation, you will manage planning activities across multiple networks, coordinate closely with warehouse and operational teams, and ensure the business remains compliant, competitive, and performance-driven.
This role requires a strong, confident leader who can manage competing priorities, drive improvements, and thrive under pressure.
Key AccountabilitiesTransport Planning & Operational Control
- Take full ownership of all transport planning and scheduling activities
- Develop and execute daily plans across multiple pallet networks
- Ensure optimal routing, load building, and vehicle utilisation
- Manage trunking operations, network deadlines, and collection/delivery windows
- Monitor daily volumes, capacity, and operational performance
- Respond dynamically to operational disruptions (traffic delays, vehicle issues, volume fluctuations)
- Drive operational decisions that balance service performance with cost efficiency
- Work closely with warehouse teams to optimise load-out processes and reduce delays
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead, motivate, and manage a team of transport planners and schedulers
- Set clear expectations, KPIs, and performance standards
- Conduct regular one-to-ones, reviews, and development planning
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and ongoing training to enhance team capability
- Create a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and high performance
- Manage team structure, shift coverage, workload distribution, and holiday planning
Network & Stakeholder Management
- Act as the central point of contact for all transport planning activity
- Build and maintain strong relationships with:
- Pallet networks (e.g. Pallet-Track, XPO, etc.)
- Depot partners and hub operations
- Subcontractors and external hauliers
- Internal departments including warehouse and customer service
- Handle escalations, service issues, and operational challenges professionally
- Ensure clear and effective communication across all stakeholders
Performance Management & Continuous Improvement
- Monitor key operational KPIs including:
- On-time delivery performance (OTIF)
- Vehicle utilisation
- Cost per delivery
- Network compliance
- Analyse operational data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives across planning and transport processes
- Identify cost-saving opportunities and efficiency gains
- Support the implementation of new systems, projects, and operational changes
Compliance & Governance
- Ensure all operations comply with:
- UK transport legislation
- Driver hours and working time directive
- Company policies and procedures
- Pallet network standards and service level agreements
- Maintain a safety-first approach across all planning decisions
- Support audit processes and ensure accurate record-keeping
Skills & Experience Essential Requirements
- Transport Manager CPC qualification (mandatory)
- Proven experience managing transport planning or logistics operations teams
- Strong background in pallet network operations
- Experience working across multiple networks and high-volume environments
- Demonstrable leadership and people management skills
- Excellent organisational, analytical, and problem-solving capability
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced operational environment
- Solid IT skills and experience with transport management systems
Desirable (Highly Advantageous)
- Experience with networks such as XPO, Pallet-Track, Haz chem or similar
- Knowledge of Vigo or similar transport planning software
- Experience using route optimisation tools
- ADR / Hazchem awareness
- Background in general haulage, pallet distribution, or multi-site logistics
- Understanding of warehouse operations and load planning
- Project management or process improvement experience
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for a highly driven and resilient individual who can lead from the front and make a measurable impact.
You will be:
- A confident decision-maker with strong operational awareness
- Commercially minded, with a focus on cost control and efficiency
- Calm under pressure and capable of managing challenging situations
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
- A natural leader who can motivate and develop teams
- Confident in building a driving a culture and mindset change
- Passionate about delivering high service standards
- Proactive and continuously looking for ways to improve performance
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to take ownership of a critical business function
- Direct impact on operational performance and profitability
- High level of autonomy and decision-making authority
- Join a growing business with strong leadership and clear direction
- Be part of a culture focused on performance, teamwork, and continuous improvement
Apply Now
If you are an experienced transport professional ready to step into a leadership role where you can make a real difference, we want to hear from you.
Click Apply today to take the next step in your logistics career.
Pay: £40,000.00 per year
Licence/Certification:
- Transport Manager CPC (required)
Work Location: In person
