Head of Transport

JR United Kingdom; Southampton; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK food manufacturer seeks a Head of Transport to oversee logistics operations. In this pivotal role, you'll lead a team, ensure compliance, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership skills, relevant experience in food logistics, and a passion for operational excellence.

Benefits

Excellent package and progression opportunities

Supportive and collaborative team environment

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the transport team, ensuring performance and compliance.
• Oversee route planning and resource allocation for delivery efficiency.
• Implement systems to improve productivity and support decision-making.

Skills

Leadership

Compliance

Communication

Fleet Management

Team Development

Route Planning

Education

CPC for Transport Managers

Tools

WMS

TMS

Job description

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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.