Transport Manager - Venture Recruitment LTD : Job Details

Transport Manager

Rochdale, Lancashire

£45,000 - £50,000 + Bonus & Benefits

Hours of work - Generally 08:00-17:00 Monday-Friday

About Us

My client is one of Europe’s largest and most successful kitchen manufacturers. Established in Germany 80 years ago, this innovative, high growth brand is recognised worldwide for innovative design and the best engineering. With two expansive head offices, a distribution warehouse in the North West of England and over 100 kitchen showrooms nationwide, they deliver a seamless service from concept to installation and aftercare to house builders, property developers and retail customers nationwide. Over the next five years the business is set to double in size.

Due to an exciting period of growth and a solid plan in place for further expansion, we are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Transport Manager that can grow with our exciting growth strategy as well as lead and oversee the operations of our transportation through our retail, house build and partner channels.

Key Responsibilities, Skills and Competencies

1. Technical Knowledge and Compliance

Understanding of Transport Legislation: In-depth knowledge of UK and EU transport laws, including the Driver Hours Rules, Working Time Directive (WTD), and Operator Licensing Requirements.

Health and Safety Regulations: Familiarity with health and safety standards, including COSHH, risk assessments, and vehicle safety checks.

Vehicle Maintenance Knowledge: Understanding of vehicle maintenance schedules, MOT requirements, and defect reporting to ensure fleet compliance.

Tachograph Compliance: Proficiency in tachograph analysis and ensuring drivers adhere to regulations.

Environmental Awareness: Knowledge of emissions standards and strategies to reduce the environmental impact of transport operations.

2. Leadership and Management Skills

Conflict Resolution: Ability to handle disputes, manage challenging personalities, and resolve conflicts effectively.

Decision-Making: Strong decision-making skills to address operational challenges and ensure compliance.

Delegation: Ability to delegate tasks appropriately while maintaining accountability.

Motivational Skills: Inspiring and motivating drivers to meet performance targets and adhere to company policies.

Performance Management: Setting clear expectations, monitoring performance, and providing constructive feedback.

3. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Effective Communication: Clear and concise communication with drivers, senior management, and external stakeholders.

Active Listening: Listening to drivers' concerns and addressing them empathetically.

Negotiation Skills: Negotiating with drivers, suppliers, and customers to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

Cultural Awareness: Managing a diverse team with sensitivity to cultural and individual differences.

4. Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills

Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze complex situations and develop practical solutions.

Data Analysis: Using data from tachographs, telematics, and other systems to identify trends and improve efficiency.

Crisis Management: Handling emergencies, such as breakdowns or accidents, calmly and effectively.

5. Organizational and Time Management Skills

Planning and Scheduling: Efficiently driver schedules, and vehicle maintenance to minimize downtime.

Prioritization: Managing multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Attention to Detail: Ensuring compliance with regulations and avoiding costly errors.

6. Emotional Intelligence

Empathy: Understanding drivers' challenges and building trust.

Patience: Remaining calm under pressure and dealing with difficult situations diplomatically.

Self-Awareness: Recognizing personal biases and managing stress effectively.

7. Industry-Specific Competencies

Driver Training: Knowledge of CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) requirements and the ability to organize training sessions.

Customer Centric: Ensuring high standards of service delivery to clients and customers.

8. Adaptability and Resilience

Flexibility: Adapting to changing regulations, customer demands, and operational challenges.

Resilience: Maintaining composure and focus during high-pressure situations.

9. Financial Acumen

Budget Management: Understanding cost control, fuel efficiency, and financial planning for transport operations.

Cost Reduction Strategies: Identifying opportunities to reduce operational costs without compromising compliance or safety.

10. Technology Proficiency

Telematics and Fleet Management Systems: Using technology to monitor driver behaviour, vehicle performance, and compliance.

Software Skills: Proficiency in transport management software, spreadsheets, and reporting tools.

11. Ethical and Professional Standards

Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and ensuring compliance with legal and company policies.

Professionalism: Leading by example and maintaining a professional demeanour at all times.

Qualifications & Experience:

Essential:

• Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in Transport Management (Road Haulage or Passenger Transport).
• Proven experience in a Transport Manager or Logistics role.
• Knowledge of UK road transport legislation and compliance.
• Willingness and physical ability to get 'hands on’ in WHS when needed.

Desirable:

• Experience with fleet management and route optimisation.
• Experience using transport management software (TMS).
• Knowledge of sustainability practices in transport (e.g., electric fleets, fuel efficiency).
• IOSH or NEBOSH qualification (Health & Safety).

There will be occasional requirement to attend site at driver’s start (04:00) and/or finish (up to 20:00) times. Autonomy would be expected to appropriately manage working hours around these requirements.