Operations Manager

431 Stagecoach (South) Limited; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 51,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days annual leave

Free travel on Stagecoach bus services

Pension scheme

Additional employee benefits

Job summary

Stagecoach Portsmouth is looking for an experienced Depot Operations Manager to lead a team of around 300 drivers and Duty Managers, ensuring safe, reliable and customer‑focused services. This pivotal role supports the introduction of electric vehicles and a greener, more sustainable Portsmouth fleet.

You will drive operational performance, develop talent, and maintain strong relationships with colleagues, unions and local stakeholders while prioritising safety and staff wellbeing every day.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in operational management and leading large teams.
• Strong knowledge of transport compliance and safety.
• CPC Level 3 Transport Manager qualification required.
• Commitment to delivering excellent customer service and staff wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of approximately 300 drivers and Duty Managers.
• Create a positive culture focused on safety, customers and people.
• Plan and deliver a cost‑effective, efficient operation daily.
• Drive performance while maintaining safety, reliability and service quality.
• Build relationships with colleagues, unions, stakeholders and partners.
• Coach and develop talent across the depot.

Skills

Operational management

Large team leadership

Customer service focus

Safety focus

Leadership & communication

Transport compliance

CPC Level 3 Qualification

Education

Transport Manager CPC Level 3

Job description

Salary £60,000 per annum Depot Operations Manager Stagecoach Portsmouth At Stagecoach Portsmouth, we're more than just a bus operator, we're a vital part of everyday life across the South Coast. As part of one of the UK's largest and most respected transport businesses, our depot is home to around 300 dedicated drivers who help connect people with work, education, healthcare, friends and family every single day. Together, we deliver more than 30 million passenger journeys each year, serving urban, rural and inter‑urban communities with pride, professionalism and a genuine passion for customer service. We're now looking for an exceptional Depot Operations Manager to help lead our operation into an exciting new chapter. This is a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic and inspiring leader who is passionate about people, operational excellence and delivering outstanding experiences for our customers. You'll be joining us at a pivotal time as we invest in the future of public transport, with the introduction of electric vehicles to our Portsmouth fleet. This transformation will help create a greener, more sustainable network for the communities we serve and presents a unique opportunity to play a leading role in shaping how our depot operates for years to come. As a key member of the leadership team, you'll help drive this exciting change while creating a positive, high‑performing culture where safety, reliability, customer service and colleague wellbeing remain at the centre of everything we do. Leading from the front, you'll inspire and develop your teams to deliver the safe, dependable and welcoming service our customers expect every day.

What You'll Be Doing

The Depot Operations Manager is at the heart of everything we do, leading our teams to deliver excellent service whilst ensuring our people feel valued, supported and empowered to succeed.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading, developing and supporting a team of approximately 300 drivers and a team of Duty Managers.
• Creating a positive culture that puts people, safety and customers at the centre of every decision.
• Planning and delivering a cost‑effective, efficient and customer‑focused operation day in, day out.
• Driving operational performance whilst maintaining a strong focus on safety, reliability and service quality.
• Building strong relationships with colleagues, trade union representatives, local stakeholders and partner organisations.
• Working closely with the Engineering Manager to ensure the depot delivers exceptional results across all key performance areas.
• Coaching and developing future talent, helping colleagues reach their full potential and progress their careers.

What We’re Looking For

We're seeking an experienced operational leader who thrives on motivating people, solving challenges and making a real difference to customers and communities. You'll have:

• A proven track record in operational management and leading large teams.
• A valid Transport Manager CPC Level 3 Qualification.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire, engage and influence others.
• A passion for delivering excellent customer service and creating positive customer experiences.
• Sound knowledge of allocation systems, transport legislation and compliance requirements.
• The ability to remain calm, decisive and solutions‑focused in a fast‑paced environment.
• A genuine commitment to safety, colleague wellbeing and continuous improvement.

Why Join Stagecoach Portsmouth?

This is far more than an operational management role. It's an opportunity to lead a depot that plays a crucial role in keeping our communities connected and moving every day.

In return, you'll benefit from:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Free travel on Stagecoach bus services
• Pension scheme
• Access to a range of additional employee benefits

Location: Stagecoach Portsmouth Depot Walton Road, Farlington, Portsmouth Hampshire PO6 1TU

Closing Date: 1st November 2026

Stagecoach is proudly an inclusive employer, striving for a culture where everyone can be themselves and where all the differences people bring are truly appreciated. We welcome applications from all, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, race, religion, beliefs, disability, neurodiversity, sexual orientation, or age.

Welcome to Stagecoach, the UK’s #1 bus company.

Every day we help millions of passengers get to the people and places that matter to them, connecting the communities we are proud to serve.

Founded in 1980, Stagecoach has established itself as the UK’s largest transport operator, with services connecting more than 100 major towns and cities in England, Scotland, and Wales.

We work with our partners to deliver a greener, smarter, safer, healthier, and fairer country. Providing extensive expertise in commercial and contracted markets, we assist national and regional government to deliver on ambitious plans for their citizens, communities, and local economy. Our team of 26,000 employees are proud to serve our customers and be an integral part of their local communities.