Passenger Transport Operations Manager

Reed; Blackburn; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A local authority service is looking for an experienced PTU Operations Manager in Salford. This role involves coordinating specialist transport for children and young people with SEND, ensuring compliance with safeguarding processes, and maintaining effective relationships with stakeholders. Candidates should have substantial operational experience and a proven track record in managing resources and addressing service-related issues. The position demands a flexible approach and the ability to work beyond standard hours when necessary.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar operational role, ideally involving the coordination of specialist or SEND transport.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding processes and confidence managing concerns.
• Ability to interpret and work within organisational policies and statutory guidance.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate specialist transport arrangements for children and young people with SEND.
• Manage safeguarding concerns following procedures and national guidance.
• Develop effective working relationships with stakeholders and respond to service-related concerns.

Skills

Operational coordination

Safeguarding understanding

Staff management

Flexible work approach

Job description

PTU Operations Manager

• Hourly Rate: £26.78 - £28.48
• Location: Salford
• Job Type: Temporary

We are seeking an experienced PTU Operations Manager to support the effective delivery of the SEND home-to-school transport service within the Children’s Service – Passenger Transport Unit. This role is crucial for coordinating specialist transport for children and young people with SEND, ensuring safety, compliance, and high-quality service delivery at all times.

Day‑to‑day of the role

• Operational Delivery
  • Coordinate specialist transport arrangements for children and young people with SEND, ensuring all journeys are planned and delivered safely, efficiently, and in line with statutory requirements.
  • Work closely with internal teams to manage staffing, resources, and operational continuity across the SEND home-to-school transport service.
  • Make informed, practical decisions to maintain service performance, including re‑routing, staffing allocation, and problem‑solving during periods of service disruption.
• Safeguarding and Compliance
  • Manage safeguarding concerns confidently, following Salford Council’s procedures and national guidance.
  • Make referrals to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) when required.
  • Ensure all activity aligns with relevant legislation, including the Education Act, and adheres to local and national policies.
  • Meet the requirements for an Enhanced DBS check and maintain strict confidentiality and data protection standards.
• Stakeholder Engagement
  • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with parents, carers, schools, external transport providers, and internal partners.
  • Respond to service‑related concerns and complaints, using diplomacy, problem‑solving skills, and a calm, professional approach to achieve positive outcomes.
• Team Support and Leadership
  • Support the wider Passenger Transport Unit in managing operational staff, including passenger assistants and administrative colleagues.
  • Contribute to workforce planning, training, and day‑to‑day coordination of staff to ensure service continuity.
  • Work flexibly, including occasional work outside standard office hours, to meet the needs of the service.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar operational role, ideally involving the coordination of specialist or SEND transport.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding processes and confidence managing concerns through appropriate channels.
• Ability to meet the requirements for an Enhanced DBS check.
• Experience supporting staffing and resource management within a fast‑paced, customer‑focused service area.
• Skilled in handling complaints and service issues with a balanced, diplomatic, and solutions‑focused approach.
• Ability to interpret and work within organisational policies, statutory guidance, and local procedures.
• Flexible approach to working hours and supporting colleagues when service demands require it.