Transport Manager

Ward Recycling; Ilkeston; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Ward Recycling is seeking a Transport Manager for its Ilkeston depot. You'll lead a dedicated team in a FORS Gold-accredited operation, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and safety in transport activities. Bring your expertise in logistics and leadership to a family-run, sustainable business committed to quality and safety.

Benefits

Company car

Pension plan

Re-Ward benefit scheme

Qualifications

• Experience in a senior transport or logistics leadership role is crucial.
• Knowledge of transport regulations and compliance is essential.
• Strong communication and analytical skills necessary.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of transport operations at the Ilkeston site.
• Ensure full legal compliance and efficient scheduling.
• Manage transport budgets and monitor KPIs.

Skills

Leadership

Compliance Knowledge

Organisational Skills

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Education

CPC National or International Transport Manager qualification

Tools

Telematics

Routing Systems

Vehicle Cameras

Job description

Transport Manager
Location: Ilkeston, DE7 4RF
Salary: Starting from £45,000
Benefits: Company car, pension, Re-Ward benefit scheme & more
Hours: Approx. 50 hours per week (40 hours basic)
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Transport Manager – Lead with Purpose in a FORS Gold-Accredited Operation

At Ward, we’re more than a transport operation — we’re a leading force in sustainable waste management. As a family-owned and family-run business, we’re proud to combine industry expertise with strong values and long-term commitment. We’re now looking for an experienced and people-focused Transport Manager to lead operations at our Ilkeston depot.

We’re also proud to hold FORS Gold accreditation, the highest standard in fleet safety and efficiency. This means you’ll be joining a company that leads the way in transport compliance and best practice.

Reporting directly to the Senior Transport Manager, you’ll manage a Compliance Administrator and work alongside a well-established team of Transport Planners and a Transport Service Delivery Manager. Together, the team supports the movement of artics, skips, roros and tippers across the UK.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Oversee all aspects of transport operations at the Ilkeston site
• Act as a named Transport Manager on the site’s Operator’s Licence
• Ensure full legal compliance, efficient scheduling, and fleet optimisation
• Line manage the Compliance Administrator and support their development
• Liaise daily with drivers, offering support and guidance
• Carry out spot checks and audits of daily vehicle checks completed by drivers
• Review and provide constructive coaching where necessary to improve safety and driving standards
• Optimise fleet operations through collaboration with Transport Planners
• Oversee vehicle maintenance and repair scheduling in coordination with the workshop team
• Work closely with Transport Planners to ensure routes are effective and resources are utilised efficiently
• Collaborate with the Transport Service Delivery Manager to enhance service delivery
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement
• Monitor KPIs, manage transport budgets and ensure performance targets are achieved
• Support our ongoing commitment to FORS Gold standards in all transport activity

What You’ll Bring:

• CPC National or International Transport Manager qualification – essential
• Experience in a senior transport or logistics leadership role
• In-depth knowledge of transport regulations, Driver Hours, WTD, and Tachograph legislation
• A proactive, supportive leadership style and ability to positively influence driver behaviours
• Experience working in a compliance-focused environment (FORS Gold exposure is a bonus)
• Strong organisational, communication and analytical skills
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
• Confidence in working with technology (e.g. telematics, routing systems, vehicle cameras)

Why Join Ward?

As a family-owned and family-run business with FORS Gold accreditation, we take pride in doing things the right way — for our people, our customers, and the environment. You’ll be part of a team that values safety, quality and sustainability in everything we do.

Apply Now – Help Us Move Forward

If you’re ready to step into a key leadership role in a progressive, high-performing transport team — we’d love to hear from you.

Take the lead. Set the standard. Join the Ward family.

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