Depot General Manager

Freight Personnel; Dafen; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job description

Overview

Job description: General Manager role for a well established and growing Pallet Distribution and Full Load business based in the Swansea region of South Wales.

Responsibilities

• Business & Operational Leadership
  • Lead and oversee all business functions including transport operations, fleet, compliance, HR, finance, and customer service.
  • Set and monitor business KPIs, budgets, and performance targets in alignment with Pallet business board strategy.
  • Ensure optimal use of vehicles, people, and technology to deliver operational excellence.
  • Lead change projects (e.g., digitisation, process improvement, cost saving, new business integration).
• Commercial Strategy & Financial Oversight
  • Deliver profitability targets, managing cost control, pricing models, and commercial decisions.
  • Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting to the Board.
  • Develop and maintain supplier relationships and cost-effective procurement practices.
• Team Leadership & People Development
  • Build a strong company culture with high standards and a supportive, motivated team.
  • Management of circa 35 staff including Supervisors, Traffic Ops, Planning, Warehouse, Payroll, Admin and Drivers.
  • Line manage department heads or directly manage small operational and admin teams.
  • Lead recruitment, succession planning, training, and performance management processes.
• Customer & Market Development
  • Act as the face of the business for key clients, ensuring strong commercial partnerships.
  • Identify new business opportunities and strategic customer development.
  • Oversee pricing, contracts, and customer satisfaction across the business.
• Compliance, Risk & Governance
  • Hold overall accountability for health & safety, transport legislation, and regulatory compliance.
  • Ensure systems and audits are in place for DVSA, insurance, environmental and employment law requirements.
  • Maintain professional relationships with external bodies.
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation
  • Champion a culture of learning, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
  • Implement systems that improve visibility, data insight, and business control.
  • Report regularly to the Board on performance, risks, and strategic opportunities.

Qualifications