Local Driver Operations Manager - People & Welfare Leader

Freightliner; Braintree; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Pension scheme

Career progression

Job summary

Freightliner is seeking a Local Operations Manager (Driver) to lead day‑to‑day welfare, attendance and engagement for a designated driver workforce across the UK. You will ensure staff are supported, compliant and managed throughout the employment lifecycle.

Reporting into Production and HR teams, you will collaborate to maintain welfare standards and drive safe, efficient service delivery while supporting development and apprenticeship engagement where applicable.

Qualifications

• Experience managing staff in an operational or safety‑critical environment.
• Proven ability to manage attendance, welfare, and disciplinary processes.
• Experience working with Trade Unions.
• Understanding of Safety Management Systems and Rail Operating environments.

Responsibilities

• Line management of drivers, ensuring welfare matters are addressed to conclusion.
• Conduct sickness and welfare contact within 24 hours of absence.
• Complete Return‑to‑Work interviews following absences.
• Develop and manage phased return‑to‑work plans.
• Manage MFA placement, monitoring, and escalation.

Skills

Staff management

Welfare management

Union liaison

Rail safety

Communication

Education

Personal Track Safety (PTS)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Freightliner is seeking a Local Operations Manager (Driver) to lead day‑to‑day welfare, attendance and engagement for a designated driver workforce across the UK. You will ensure staff are supported, compliant and managed throughout the employment lifecycle.

Reporting into Production and HR teams, you will collaborate to maintain welfare standards and drive safe, efficient service delivery while supporting development and apprenticeship engagement where applicable.