The Role
As Transport Manager, the successful candidate will work closely with the Operations Director, Operations Manager and senior leadership team, to oversee the safe, compliant and efficient management of the vehicle fleet (made up of cars, vans, HGV’s and Plant).
We have 2 main site locations based in Southampton and Boston. Regular travel to both sites will be necessary.
The role will involve an extensive induction period to ensure you have the full knowledge to excel in the position. This will include becoming familiar with existing fleet systems, compliance processes, maintenance arrangements, transport procedures and site operations. Being the architect in managing the safe transition of fleet maintenance from Main Dealer R&M to inhouse.
The right candidate will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact by improving fleet compliance, vehicle availability, driver standards, cost control and overall transport efficiency across the business.
The Transport Manager will be responsible for the implementation, monitoring and continual improvement of fleet management processes across the operation.
Accuracy, safety, compliance and service delivery are at the forefront of what we do. This role will require strong leadership, practical problem-solving and the ability to drive consistent standards across a diverse fleet.
The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that all vehicles are maintained in a safe, roadworthy and compliant condition. This will include managing vehicle inspections, routine maintenance, MOTs, servicing schedules, defect reporting and supplier performance.
We invest heavily in continuous IT development and fleet technology to improve safety, compliance, efficiency and customer service. As part of the role, you will be expected to use fleet management systems, telematics, reporting tools and data to monitor performance, identify trends and recommend improvements across the transport operation.
In this role, you will split your time between visiting several locations in the UK. You will be required to travel nationwide to ensure the wider team are following consistent transport processes and that compliance standards are being maintained. This will require a degree of flexibility for travel, including overnight stays where necessary.
We are seeking a highly organised, commercially aware and determined individual who is motivated by success, continuous improvement and operational excellence. The right candidate will be confident working with drivers, managers, suppliers and senior stakeholders, while also being comfortable challenging poor standards where required.
This is a role for somebody with a passion for transport compliance, fleet performance, operational detail and continuous improvement. The successful candidate will be expected to bring structure, consistency and accountability to a growing fleet operation while supporting the wider business in delivering safe, efficient and reliable service.
Duties include:
- Managing the vehicle fleet operating nationwide.
- Managing the change of vehicle inspections from external to internal R&M and repairs.
- Ensuring all vehicles are maintained in a safe, roadworthy and legally compliant condition.
- Arranging and monitoring routine vehicle maintenance, servicing, MOTs, safety inspections and defect rectification.
- Managing HGV maintenance schedules in line with Operator Licence requirements and DVSA expectations.
- Monitoring van and HGV compliance across the group, ensuring all records are accurate, complete and available for audit.
- Communicating with Management to ensure they are kept up to date with relevant training, qualifications, policies and procedures.
- Supporting compliance with drivers’ hours, tachograph rules and working time requirements for HGV drivers.
- Working with Health & Safety to conduct transport-related risk assessments and implement appropriate control measures.
- Working with depot managers and regional managers to ensure transport standards are followed consistently across all sites.
- Organising and maintaining the efficiency of the wider transport service.
- Supporting vehicle allocation, replacement planning, defleeting and procurement decisions.
- Monitoring vehicle downtime and working with suppliers to reduce delays and improve repair turnaround times.
- Managing relationships with external garages, vehicle suppliers and telematics providers.
- Reviewing fleet operating costs and identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary spend.
- Maintaining accurate fleet records, including vehicle details, service history, MOT dates, inspection records, defects, repairs and compliance documentation.
- Producing regular transport and fleet reports for senior management.
- Identifying areas for improvement in current fleet and transport processes.
- Developing and implementing consistent transport procedures.
- Ensuring transport activities support customer service, operational efficiency and business growth.
- Keeping up to date with relevant transport legislation and industry best practice.
- Driving a culture of safety, accountability and continuous improvement across the transport operation.
Required Attributes:
- Self-motivated with a desire to further their career by showcasing abilities.
- Strong leadership and relationship-building skills.
- Excellent process and time management.
- Strong understanding of vehicle compliance and transport operations.
- Confident communicator with the ability to engage drivers, managers, suppliers and senior stakeholders.
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
- Commercially aware with the ability to identify cost-saving opportunities.
- A dedicated team player.
- Ability to work in a team and on own initiative.
- Practical problem-solving skills.
- Confidently challenging standards and driving accountability.
- Adaptable to change.
- Comfortable working across multiple sites.
- Strong IT skills, including Excel, fleet systems and reporting tools.
- Willingness to travel.
Desired Qualifications:
- Transport Manager CPC qualification.
- Strong knowledge of Operator Licence requirements.
- Experience managing engineers and vehicle maintenance.
- Experience managing a mixed fleet of cars, vans and HGVs.
- Knowledge of DVSA standards, tachograph compliance, drivers’ hours and working time regulations.
- Experience using fleet management systems and telematics platforms.
- Experience managing external maintenance providers and vehicle suppliers.
- IOSH or other relevant Health & Safety qualification would be advantageous.
Pay: £36,000.00-£46,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Bereavement leave
- Company car
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Work Location: In person
