Head of Transport

JR United Kingdom; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading food manufacturer as a Head of Transport to spearhead logistics operations. This leadership role is ideal for a seasoned professional with a passion for the food industry and a commitment to delivering service excellence and compliance. You'll ensure smooth operations, lead a dedicated team, and have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Benefits

Excellent package and progression opportunities

Supportive and collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in a transport/logistics role, preferably in food or FMCG.
• Excellent understanding of transport legislation and health & safety regulations.
• Experience managing logistics teams in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the transport team including supervision and coaching.
• Ensure compliance with transport operations and legal requirements.
• Maximise delivery efficiency through planning and resource allocation.

Skills

Leadership

Compliance

Communication

Problem Solving

Commercial Awareness

Education

CPC for Transport Managers

Tools

WMS

TMS

Job description

Head of Transport, newcastle-upon-tyne, tyne and wear

Client:

Location:

newcastle-upon-tyne, tyne and wear, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

-

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Views:

2

Posted:

04.06.2025

Expiry Date:

19.07.2025

Job Description:

We’re proud to be partnering with one of the UK’s most respected food manufacturers—an organisation known for quality, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.

As a trusted recruitment partner in the food and drink industry, we’re excited to be representing this key client in their search for an exceptional Head of Transport to lead and inspire their logistics operation.

This is more than a job—it’s a leadership opportunity at the heart of a fast-paced, customer-driven business where every decision counts. If you’re a seasoned logistics professional with a passion for food, people, and performance, this could be the role you’ve been waiting for.

? The Role

As Head of Transport, you’ll be responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of the transport function—ensuring the smooth, safe, and compliant delivery of food products to customers nationwide.

You'll take ownership of the transport team and fleet, working closely with senior management, warehouse operations, and customer service to deliver against ambitious service level agreements. From coaching and developing transport supervisors to implementing continuous improvement plans and managing budgets, your work will have a direct impact on customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

This is a hands-on leadership role—perfect for someone who thrives on solving problems, motivating people, and ensuring every pallet gets where it needs to be, on time and in perfect condition.

? Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the transport team, including Transport Supervisors and Drivers, fostering a culture of performance, accountability, and safety.
• Ensure full legal and regulatory compliance across all transport operations, including driver hours, tachographs, vehicle maintenance, and food safety standards (e.g. BRC).
• Oversee route planning, scheduling, and resource allocation to maximise delivery efficiency while maintaining service excellence.
• Implement and improve systems (WMS/TMS) to increase productivity, reduce costs, and support data-driven decision making.
• Partner with HR and Training to ensure team development and succession planning.
• Report on KPIs, budget performance, and service levels to senior leadership.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and customer care.

What You’ll Need

• Proven leadership experience in a transport/logistics role—ideally within food or FMCG manufacturing.
• CPC for Transport Managers (essential).
• Excellent working knowledge of transport legislation, compliance, and health & safety.
• Experience managing drivers and transport teams in a dynamic environment.
• Strong understanding of route planning, fleet management, and WMS/TMS systems.
• Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Commercially savvy, with the ability to balance service, cost, and compliance.
• A team player who leads by example and commands respect through fairness, consistency, and credibility.

? Why Apply?

• Join a highly respected, people-first food manufacturer.
• Play a pivotal leadership role with real autonomy and influence.
• Be supported by a passionate, collaborative, and expert team.
• Excellent package and progression opportunities in a growing business.

If you’re a transport leader with food industry credentials and a people-focused mindset, we want to hear from you.

For more information contact Shaf Islam on [e-mail] or 01780 483999.