VMU Service Manager

Gist Limited; Crewe; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

M&S discount

25 days annual leave

Healthcare discount plan

Annual bonus

Pension

Employee discounts app

Wellbeing support

Cycle to work

Job summary

Gist Limited is seeking a Vehicle Maintenance Unit (VMU) Service Manager in Crewe to lead day-to-day operations of the VMU, ensuring roadworthy fleet, compliance, and efficient service delivery. You will manage a high-performing engineering team, drive safety and continuous improvement, and optimise budgets and maintenance planning.

The role requires experience in HGV maintenance, electrical and mechanical engineering, and strong leadership in a logistics setting.

Qualifications

• Qualified engineer with a background in both electrical and mechanical disciplines.
• Experience in a logistics environment or similar.
• Proven budget management and cost forecasting experience.
• Team leadership of high-performing engineering staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day VMU operation to ensure efficient service delivery and compliance.
• Drive safety culture and continuous improvement across VMU operations.
• Manage budgets, spares, contractors, SLAs and maintenance resources.
• Collaborate with site operations to support business objectives and VMU improvements.

Skills

Electrical & mechanical

Budget management

Team leadership

HGV maintenance

Education

NVQ Level 2-3 in HGV Maintenance & Repair

Job description

At Gist, we're proud to be part of the M&S Group, the logistics engine behind M&S Food.

From our distribution centres to our transport operations and support functions, we connect people, technology and expertise to ensure the right products reach the right stores at the right time.

As we continue to invest in our people, technology and network, there's never been a more exciting time to join Gist and help shape the future of food logistics.

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a Vehicle Maintenance Unit (VMU) Service Manager to join our team in Crewe.

Are you an experienced HGV Workshop or VMU Service Manager looking for your next big challenge? Are you ready to take charge, elevate your career, and make a real impact? We’re recruiting for a dynamic VMU Service Manager to lead our Crewe site and steer our fleet maintenance operations. You’ll be the driving force behind keeping our HGV fleet roadworthy, compliant, and performing at its absolute best. This is a hands‑on role where you will operate from the heart of the VMU. This isn’t just another role — it’s your opportunity to lead with purpose, work with a high‑performing team and see real results.

What’s in it for you

This role is primarily Monday – Friday, however we are operational 24/7 and there will be flexibility required.

As well as a competitive salary, you'll benefit from:

• 20% M&S discount on most things from furniture, fashion and food
• 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (rising with length of service)
• Discounted rates on healthcare cash plan
• Attractive annual bonus scheme, based on M&S performance and personal objectives
• Auto Enrolment Pension or competitive Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and life assurance (up to 4 times salary)
• Amazing perks and discounts via our App to major restaurants and retailers
• Access to a wide range of wellbeing support – including our Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to work scheme

What you'll be doing

Your key accountabilities will include:

• Lead the day‑to‑day operation of the VMU, ensuring efficient service delivery, compliance, preventative maintenance, and effective management of vehicle defects, workflows, and service planning.
• Champion a strong safety culture by driving continuous improvement, maintaining quality and legal compliance, and leading investigations into incidents and operational issues.
• Inspire, develop, and manage a high-performing engineering team through effective communication, recruitment, performance management, training, and resource planning.
• Manage budgets, spare parts, contractors, SLAs, and maintenance resources to optimise cost, maximise vehicle availability, and deliver outstanding customer service.
• Work collaboratively across site operations to support business objectives, minimise disruption, drive VMU improvement initiatives, and provide cover for the Fleet Engineering Manager as required.

What we're looking for

Your skills and experience will include:

• Qualified engineer with a background in both electrical and mechanical disciplines.
• Relevant experience in a logistics environment or a similar field.
• Innovate problem‑solving skills, with a proven track record of implementing new solutions to enhance performance.
• Team management experience, with a focus on leading and developing high‑performing teams.
• Proficient in budget management and cost forecasting.
• Project management experience, including improvements, cost savings, and the installation of new equipment.
• Positive approach towards Health, Safety and Wellbeing initiatives.
• NVQ Level 2-3 in HGV Maintenance and Repair or an equivalent qualification.

Why Gist?

When you join Gist, you're joining a business that plays a critical role within the M&S Group.

You'll have the opportunity to influence meaningful change, work alongside experienced leaders and contribute to one of the UK's leading food supply chains.

Our culture is built around our values of being Progressive, Accountable, Collaborative and Ethical, creating an environment where people are trusted, supported and encouraged to grow.

Whether you're leading a site operation, delivering transformation or shaping future strategy, your work will make a real difference.

Our commitment to inclusion

At Gist, we believe our differences make us stronger.

We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please let us know. We'll work with you to ensure you have the support you need.