Logistic jobs in United Kingdom

VANRATH are delighted to be assisting a major client with the Recruitment of an Experienced Senior Transport Planning Manager to join an experienced and dynamic team based in Antrim.

Head of Transport & Despatch

Location: UK & ROI | Level: Senior Leadership

£60-70k DOE / 37.5 hours (8-5 M-T, 8-1:30 Fridays) flexibility given on start/finish times.

We\'re seeking a strategic and hands-on leader to head our Transport and Despatch operations across the UK and Ireland. This role is critical in ensuring legal compliance, operational excellence, and on-time delivery, while shaping the future of our logistics strategy.

• Lead and develop Transport & Despatch teams across sites.

• Define and execute departmental strategy aligned with business goals.

• Drive KPIs (OTIF, cost, compliance, safety) and a culture of performance and continuous improvement.

• Ensure legal, compliant, and efficient transport operations across UK & ROI.

• Act as named CPC holder; oversee operator licence compliance (NI & UK).

• Manage full vehicle lifecycle: procurement, utilisation, maintenance, disposal.

• Oversee driver compliance (CPC, licence checks, tachographs, WTD).

• Control transport budgets and drive cost efficiencies.

• Manage subcontractor performance and cross-channel shipping operations (NI-GB).

• Ensure accurate, on-time despatch of finished goods to customers, sites, and branches.

• Align despatch with production and planning for optimal flow.

• Oversee task allocation, training, and performance of operatives, loaders, and forklift drivers.

• Maintain rigorous quality standards, despatch records, and ERP/MRP data accuracy.

• Ensure safe handling and loading of fragile items (glass, frames).

• Lead support sub-functions: glazing, frame prep, glass protection.

• Partner with Production, QC, Customer Services, Credit Control, HR, and H&S for seamless operations.

• Coordinate with transport planners to optimise routing and delivery.

• Bridge communication between Antrim and Lancaster operations.

• Proven senior-level experience in transport/logistics & despatch leadership.

• Strong working knowledge of UK/ROI transport law - CPC qualified.

• Skilled in multi-site operations, budget management, and cost control.

• Track record of building high-performing teams and driving operational excellence.

• ERP/MRP proficient with data-driven decision making.

• Excellent stakeholder, planning, and communication skills.

• Competitive salary + benefits.

• A key leadership role with national impact.

• Opportunity to shape logistics strategy across UK & Ireland.

• Supportive, collaborative team environment.

For more information on this role please contact Phil Doherty @ VANRATH

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