Operations Director
Location: East of England (Norfolk, Cambridge & Peterborough)
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Company: Zova Transport Ltd
About Zova Transport
Zova Transport Ltd is a trusted provider of school and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) transportation services across Norfolk. We are committed to delivering safe, reliable, and high-quality transport solutions that support children, young people, families, schools, and local authorities.
As our business continues to grow, we are seeking an experienced and dynamic Operations Director to lead our operations and support the next phase of our development.
The Role
The Operations Director will have overall responsibility for managing and developing the company's transport operations. The successful candidate will ensure that services are delivered safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all relevant regulations while maintaining excellent relationships with schools, parents, local authorities, and other stakeholders.
This is a senior leadership role requiring strong operational management, strategic thinking, and people leadership skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee all day-to-day transport operations.
- Develop and implement operational strategies to improve efficiency and service quality.
- Manage and support operational teams, including drivers, passenger assistants, and office staff.
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, health and safety, and transport regulations.
- Monitor performance against operational targets and key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, schools, and clients.
- Manage operational budgets and identify opportunities for cost savings and growth.
- Oversee fleet utilisation, maintenance planning, and service delivery standards.
- Investigate incidents, complaints, and service issues, ensuring timely resolution.
- Support business growth, contract mobilisation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience in a senior operations leadership role.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Experience within transport, logistics, passenger transport, or a related industry.
- Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong understanding of compliance, safeguarding, and health and safety requirements.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience in school transport or SEND transport services.
- Knowledge of local authority transport contracts and procurement processes.
- CPC qualification or transport management experience.
- Experience managing fleet operations and transport compliance.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Company vehicle or vehicle allowance.
- Pension scheme.
- Professional development opportunities.
- A leadership role within a growing and respected transport provider.
- The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people.
Pay: From £30,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
