Team Leader - Van Driver, Retail

Barnardo's; England; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent charity organization is seeking a Logistics Team Leader to manage a team of remote drivers. The role includes ensuring compliance with logistics procedures and enhancing operational efficiency. Key responsibilities involve monitoring driver performance, vehicle maintenance, and staff welfare. Candidates should possess strong leadership skills and experience in logistics management. This position is hybrid, requiring occasional travel within a 40-mile radius of Reading.

Qualifications

• Experience in logistics or operational management.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Ability to monitor performance and ensure compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of remote drivers effectively.
• Ensure compliance with all logistics procedures and policies.
• Monitor vehicle maintenance and driver performance.

Job description

Overview

Logistics Team Leader

Reports to: Logistics Manager

Location: Hybrid working (home base with travel). Successful candidate must live within a 40 mile radius of Reading

Direct Reports: Average of 15-20 Drivers

Purpose of the Role: To lead, support and coordinate a team of drivers who operate remotely, ensuring the safe, efficient and compliant movement of stock between retail shops, depots and other collection points. The Team Leader ensures high standards of vehicle maintenance, driver performance, and welfare, while maintaining operational efficiency and customer service standards.

When completing your application please refer to your skills knowledge and experience in relation to the Person Specification and Job Description. This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described.

Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Full line manager responsibilities for all drivers within designated Team
• Manage workloads and provide full support to both employed and Agency Drivers
• Check plans, coordinate and monitor daily vehicle routes and schedules to ensure timely collections and deliveries between locations.
• Ensure drivers follow established logistics procedures and comply with all company transport policies.
• Monitor performance metrics (e.g., punctuality, mileage, delivery accuracy).
• Address operational issues promptly, such as delays, vehicle breakdowns, or stock discrepancies by communicating with appropriate stakeholders.
• Report breakdowns, manage repairs and hire vehicles using the appropriate support platforms
• Liaise with stakeholders, reporting any adverse service impacts to their daily route plans, and maintain smooth operations within their service
• Provide weekend cover on a roster basis

Vehicle Maintenance & Compliance

• Ensure all vehicles are being maintained to legal and company standards by the drivers
• Track and record vehicle maintenance schedules and inspection outcomes.
• Conduct On Site driver vehicle audits with individual drivers
• Support the rollout of any new vehicle systems or telematics.
• Ensure prompt reporting of vehicle defects, reducing costs to the business and maintaining Good Stewardship of the Charities funds

People Management & Welfare

• Provide regular communication and support to drivers who work remotely, ensuring they feel connected and valued.
• Conduct On Site driver visits and welfare checks, discussing performance, wellbeing, and training requirements.
• Monitor driver hours, manage driver holidays, ensure cover and compliance with working time regulations.
• Complete and manage driver sickness and absence
• Encourage a culture of safety, teamwork and respect.
• Manage any performance or conduct issues in line with company policy.
• Identify driver training requirements and provide a platform for this to be delivered.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all drivers adhere to Health and Safety regulations, including safe loading and manual handling procedures.
• Promote and monitor driver adherence to road safety and driving standards.
• Investigate and report any accidents, incidents or near misses.
• Keep up-to-date with transport legislation and ensure compliance.

Reporting & Administration

• Maintain accurate records of driver activity, vehicle status, and stock movement.
• Prepare weekly and monthly reports on logistics performance, maintenance and driver KPIs.
• Contribute to process improvement and logistics efficiency initiatives.