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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the transport team to ensure timely food deliveries.
- Company: Join a top UK food manufacturer known for quality and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent package, progression opportunities, and a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced, customer-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in logistics, CPC for Transport Managers essential.
- Other info: Contact Shaf Islam for more details on this exciting opportunity.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We’re proud to be partnering with one of the UK’s most respected food manufacturers—an organisation known for quality, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. As a trusted recruitment partner in the food and drink industry, we’re excited to be representing this key client in their search for an exceptional Head of Transport to lead and inspire their logistics operation.
This is more than a job—it’s a leadership opportunity at the heart of a fast-paced, customer-driven business where every decision counts. If you’re a seasoned logistics professional with a passion for food, people, and performance, this could be the role you’ve been waiting for.
The Role
As Head of Transport, you’ll be responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of the transport function—ensuring the smooth, safe, and compliant delivery of food products to customers nationwide. You'll take ownership of the transport team and fleet, working closely with senior management, warehouse operations, and customer service to deliver against ambitious service level agreements. From coaching and developing transport supervisors to implementing continuous improvement plans and managing budgets, your work will have a direct impact on customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. This is a hands-on leadership role—perfect for someone who thrives on solving problems, motivating people, and ensuring every pallet gets where it needs to be, on time and in perfect condition.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the transport team, including Transport Supervisors and Drivers, fostering a culture of performance, accountability, and safety.
- Ensure full legal and regulatory compliance across all transport operations, including driver hours, tachographs, vehicle maintenance, and food safety standards (e.g. BRC).
- Oversee route planning, scheduling, and resource allocation to maximise delivery efficiency while maintaining service excellence.
- Implement and improve systems (WMS/TMS) to increase productivity, reduce costs, and support data-driven decision making.
- Partner with HR and Training to ensure team development and succession planning.
- Report on KPIs, budget performance, and service levels to senior leadership.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and customer care.
What You’ll Need
- Proven leadership experience in a transport/logistics role—ideally within food or FMCG manufacturing.
- CPC for Transport Managers (essential).
- Excellent working knowledge of transport legislation, compliance, and health & safety.
- Experience managing drivers and transport teams in a dynamic environment.
- Strong understanding of route planning, fleet management, and WMS/TMS systems.
- Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Commercially savvy, with the ability to balance service, cost, and compliance.
- A team player who leads by example and commands respect through fairness, consistency, and credibility.
Why Apply?
- Join a highly respected, people-first food manufacturer.
- Play a pivotal leadership role with real autonomy and influence.
- Be supported by a passionate, collaborative, and expert team.
- Excellent package and progression opportunities in a growing business.
If you’re a transport leader with food industry credentials and a people-focused mindset, we want to hear from you.
Head of Transport employer: Zest Food Jobs
Contact Detail:
Zest Food Jobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Transport
✨Tip Number 1
Network within the food and drink industry. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. This can help you gain insights into the company culture and potentially get a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends in transport logistics, especially within the food sector. Being knowledgeable about innovations and sustainability practices can set you apart during discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Think of specific examples where you've improved efficiency or fostered a positive team culture, as these will resonate well with the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's values and mission. Tailor your conversations to reflect how your experience aligns with their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, demonstrating that you're a perfect fit for their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Transport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership experience in transport and logistics, particularly within the food or FMCG sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and improve operational efficiency.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the food industry and your understanding of the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention how your skills align with their needs, especially in areas like compliance and team development.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you clearly state your CPC for Transport Managers and any other relevant qualifications. This is essential for demonstrating your credibility and expertise in transport legislation and health & safety.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your outstanding communication skills. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with teams and senior management to drive performance and achieve service excellence.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest Food Jobs
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Transport, your leadership experience is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, motivated staff, and fostered a culture of accountability and safety in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Industry Knowledge
Make sure you have a solid understanding of transport legislation, compliance, and health & safety standards relevant to the food industry. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're well-prepared for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage logistics challenges, improve efficiency, or handle compliance issues, and be ready to share your thought process.
✨Highlight Continuous Improvement Initiatives
The role requires a focus on sustainability and innovation. Be ready to discuss any continuous improvement initiatives you've implemented in the past, particularly those that have led to increased productivity or cost savings.
