Cover Site Operations Manager

Arriva UK Bus Ltd; London; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading transport company seeks a Cover Site Operations Manager to oversee operations across Clapton, Barking, and Dartford Garages. The role focuses on leadership, operational performance, and team engagement to ensure safe and inclusive services. Ideal candidates will have operational leadership experience in the transport sector and strong communication skills. This position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Complimentary travel on all TfL routes

25 days annual leave, option to buy up to 5 more

Pension scheme

Access to Employee Assistance Programme

Transport Manager Allowance with CPC support

Qualifications

• Experience in operational leadership within transport or logistics.
• Ability to lead teams across multiple locations.
• Strong commercial awareness with budget management experience.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safe and compliant daily operations across all sites.
• Lead local teams for efficient, high-quality service.
• Support Health & Safety policies implementation.

Skills

Operational leadership

Team motivation

Commercial awareness

Communication skills

Education

CPC qualification

Job description

Cover – Site Operations Manager (Clapton, Barking & Dartford Garages)

Location: London – Covering Clapton, Barking and Dartford Garages
Salary: £52,070 per annum, rising to £54,987 after two years
Working Pattern: Full-time, 38 hours per week

We are seeking an experienced and adaptable Cover Site Operations Manager to provide leadership and continuity across our London operations, specifically covering Clapton, Barking, and Dartford Garages. This key role ensures that site operations continue to run smoothly and safely during periods of transition, absence, or increased operational demand.

In this role, you will be responsible for managing the day-to-day running of our bus services, ensuring operational performance, customer service standards, and safety compliance are maintained. You will lead and support site teams, manage costs, collaborate with trade unions, and uphold the company’s values and service commitments.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a proactive approach to problem-solving, team development, and stakeholder engagement. You will play a vital role in promoting a workplace culture that reflects the diversity and inclusivity of the communities we serve.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Ensuring safe and compliant daily operations across all covered sites

Leading local teams to deliver efficient, high-quality service

Supporting and implementing the company’s Health & Safety policies

Managing costs and contributing to local budget planning and performance

Collaborating with local stakeholders, authorities, and trade unions

Promoting company values, particularly around Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Driving continuous improvement, innovation, and team engagement

Supporting Corporate Social Responsibility and sharing best practices across sites

What We’re Looking For

Experience in operational leadership within transport, logistics, facilities, or similar industries

Proven ability to lead and motivate teams across multiple locations

Strong commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and driving performance

A collaborative, inclusive leadership style with excellent communication skills

CPC qualification or willingness to obtain (full support provided)

What We Offer

Salary: £52,070, increasing to £54,987 after two years

Working Hours: 38 hours per week

Travel Benefits: Complimentary travel on all TfL routes for you and one nominated person (after three months)

Annual Leave: 25 days, with the option to buy up to 5 additional days

Professional Support: Transport Manager Allowance (with CPC), full support for qualification if needed

Additional Benefits: Pension scheme and access to an Employee Assistance Programme

This is your opportunity to step into a high-impact leadership role, ensuring operational excellence across three of our busiest sites. If you’re ready to lead with purpose and support our mission to deliver safe, reliable, and inclusive transport, we’d love to hear from you.

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