Transport Operations Manager

Michael Page (UK); Dartford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics firm in Dartford is seeking a Transport Operations Manager to oversee daily transport activities and improve service delivery. The ideal candidate will have experience in managing transport operations within food distribution and possess strong people management skills. This role offers a competitive salary and benefits, as well as opportunities for career progression within a growing logistics business.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Clear progression opportunities

Autonomy in role development

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing transport operations within food distribution or FMCG.
• Strong leadership skills to coach and motivate teams.
• Excellent understanding of transport compliance and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily transport operations across a large fleet.
• Ensure compliance with legal and industry requirements.
• Oversee route planning and resource allocation.

Skills

Transport operations management

People management

Transport compliance knowledge

Budget management

Stakeholder management

Education

CPC qualification (National/International)

Job description

• Previous Transport experience is required
• Strong people management as well as strong commercial experience

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established leader in temperature-controlled distribution, supplying major food retailers and manufacturers across the UK. Operating from a strategically positioned site in Dartford, the business is experiencing sustained growth and is investing heavily in operational excellence, customer service, and people development. To support this continued expansion, they are looking to appoint a highly capable Transport Operations Manager to lead day-to-day transport activity, drive performance, and uphold exceptional service levels.

Job Description

Reporting to senior management, the Transport Operations Manager will take full ownership of all transport operations on site. You will ensure compliance, efficiency, and commercial performance in a fast-paced, customer-centric environment.

• Leading daily transport operations across a large temperature-controlled fleet.
• Managing a team of Drivers, Planners, and Transport Supervisors, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Ensuring all transport activity is compliant with legal and industry requirements, including WTD, tachographs, and O-Licence obligations.
• Delivering operational KPIs across cost, service, safety, and customer satisfaction.
• Overseeing route planning, scheduling, and resource allocation to optimise efficiency.
• Managing budgets, cost control, and supplier relationships.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives to improve service delivery and reduce operational waste.
• Collaborating with customers to maintain strong relationships and resolve service challenges swiftly.
• Supporting strategic business projects and future growth plans.

The Successful Applicant

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience managing transport operations within food distribution, FMCG, or a temperature-controlled logistics environment.
• Strong people-leadership skills, with the ability to coach, motivate, and influence teams.
• Excellent understanding of transport compliance and industry regulation.
• A data-driven, commercially astute mindset with the ability to balance cost and service.
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder-management skills.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, customer-focused setting.
• CPC qualification (National/International) - desirable.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to join a growing, forward-thinking logistics business
• Autonomy to shape and develop a high-performing transport operation
• Clear progression opportunities within a supportive leadership team