Transport Manager

Brief summary of duties:

The Transport Manager is pivotal in ensuring the highest standards of quality and service excellence in managing deliveries to retailers across a multi-site operation. Based at Dartford, this role leads both the company’s own fleet and third-party logistics (3PL) providers, including parcel carriers, to guarantee seamless and reliable transport operations.

As the face of the business, the transport team plays a crucial role in maintaining our reputation, directly interacting with customers to uphold exceptional service standards. Our delivery service KPIs and customer-facing experience should be the envy of our competitors, setting the benchmark for excellence in the industry. This role is also a key contributor to OTIF (On Time In Full) performance, ensuring quality and reliability in our operations.

This role offers an opportunity to lead and optimise the transport function, ensuring the highest level of customer service, operational efficiency, and compliance excellence. If you are a dynamic leader with a data-driven mindset, we invite you to apply and drive our transport success forward.

Key areas of responsibility:

Delivering Service Excellence

Lead and motivate the transport and dispatch team to provide best-in-class service.
Monitor and enforce third-party driver contract SLA compliance.
Maintain high standards of on-time departures and deliveries.
Oversee multi-site operations, ensuring consistency and excellence in service across all locations.
Drive prompt and effective resolution of customer service issues and driver complaints.
Implement driver feedback mechanisms to enhance performance and satisfaction.
Reinforce the importance of the transport team as the face of the business in every customer interaction.
Ensure 100% compliance with Proof of Delivery (POD) and Proof of Collection (POC) for revenue protection.

Transport Planning Excellence

Optimise transport planning using data-driven insights to enhance route efficiency and van/LGV utilisation.
Lead the review process for operational performance targets and compliance.
Ensure seamless integration of 3rd party logistics (3PL) providers to maximise efficiency.
Proactively manage distribution solutions, including fleet safety and operational efficiency.
Develop and implement strategic transport solutions to support business growth.

Financial & Operational Efficiency

Manage and control the transport budget (£2m), ensuring cost efficiencies and value for money.
Present weekly financial reports within a 5% variance of actuals.
Drive cost-saving initiatives while maintaining service quality.
Oversee prompt invoice queries and resolution processes.
Monitor and enhance operational efficiency through structured KPIs and reporting.

Leadership & Team Development

Lead a high-performing team, ensuring effective recruitment, training, and development.
Implement structured induction programs, driver CPC training, and multi-skilling initiatives.
Conduct performance management, disciplinary procedures, and absence management.
Develop a succession planning strategy to build future transport leadership.

Strategic Growth & Future Planning

Contribute to the senior management team’s strategic objectives.
Develop a 12-month+ business transport development plan.
Drive continuous improvement and innovation in transport operations.
Implement internal audits and compliance assessments to maintain high standards.
Ensure the transport team is recognised as a major contributor to OTIF performance, reinforcing its critical role in delivering quality and reliability.

Compliance & Legal Consolidation

Hold the company’s Operator Licence and ensure full regulatory compliance.
Maintain adherence to FTA, VOSA, Domestic Transport Regulations, and WTD.
Oversee vehicle maintenance, defect reporting, accident handling, and compliance audits.
Ensure all transport activities align with legislative requirements and internal policies.
Manage uniform and customer service compliance, including return processes.

Key internal and external relationships:

3rd Party Parcel Carrier & 3PL Regional Logistics Provider
Warehouse & Sales Staff
Customer Services Team

Key skills and qualifications:

Essential Qualifications:

Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) – required.

Experience & Skills:

Minimum 5 years of relevant transport management experience.
Strong financial acumen with experience managing transport budgets.
Proven track record of service excellence and on-time delivery performance.
Leadership experience in managing and motivating transport teams.
Expertise in transport planning systems and scheduling methodologies.
Knowledge of fleet management and transport legislation.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Proficiency in MS Word and Excel for reporting and analysis.

Industry Knowledge:

Warehouse and transport management systems.
Route optimization and vehicle scheduling.
Compliance with MCA, GDP, ISO, FTA, and VOSA regulations.
Health and safety, grievance procedures, and employment law basics.

Benefits:

25 days’ holiday plus Bank Holidays;
Auto enrolment government pension scheme;
4 x salary life assurance;
Private healthcare salary sacrifice scheme;
Buying and selling of annual leave available;
Financial support programme available;
Access to an employee assistance programme;
Quarterly nights out with the team, paid for up to £25 per head;
Discounted gym membership at the Hilton doubletrees;
Christmas party and Summer Family Fun Day;
Discounted travel prices on Arriva public transport in Kent;
Contributory defined contribution pension scheme;
Premium watch such as Rolex for 10 year’s service;
Fabulous working conditions www.bathroombrands.com/behind-the-scenes