At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage a dynamic transport team in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join a century-old catering butcher with a strong reputation in the meat trade.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounted staff sales, 20 days holiday, and an attendance bonus.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing business while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport/logistics and strong communication skills are essential.
Are you an experienced Transport Manager looking for your next exciting challenge?
If you pride yourself on your ability to engage, lead, and motivate your team then please read on...
We are a rapidly expanding successful group that encompasses all aspects of the meat trade, and we are currently recruiting for a Transport Manager to manage the Transport Operation at our Irlam, Manchester Site.
This is a rare and exciting to join a fast paced 24 hour business and make a difference!
Our business which is a catering butcher has over 100 years of experience in the meat and farming industries.
All products are prepared in the factory at Manchester daily to each customer's specifications, packaged and labelled to and above legislation, and then delivered direct throughout the UK.
About the Role Primary responsibilities of the Transport Manager are;
To lead and manage the day-to-day operation of the transport department, ensuring the smooth running and safe, legal, efficient and cost-effective delivery of all daily transport activities.
The role is responsible for developing the transport team, maintaining high service standards, ensuring regulatory compliance, and overseeing the upkeep and maintenance of the transport depot and associated facilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & People Management
- Lead, motivate, support and develop the Transport Team Management, Supervisors and wider transport team including Despatch.
- Manage recruitment, induction, performance, absence, disciplinary and development processes.
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork and continuous improvement.
- Transport Operations
- Responsible for the upkeep and management of the Operators Licence
- Responsible for ensuring that the relevant records are maintained in respect of the Tachographs
- Plan and optimise daily delivery routes, ensuring efficient use of vehicles and resources whilst meeting customer service requirements and maximising operational efficiency and minimising costs.
- Monitor operational KPIs, including route performance, delivery schedules and driver productivity and implement improvements to maximise service levels and productivity.
- Respond to operational issues and implement solutions to minimise service disruption.
- Manage transport budgets, labour costs, overtime and agency usage.
- Support operational planning and business continuity during periods of disruption.
- Manage, maintain and improve Third Party supplier relationships
- Compliance & Safety
- Ensure compliance with all relevant transport legislation, Health & Safety requirements and company policies.
- Maintain accurate records and ensure the department remains audit ready.
- Investigate accidents, incidents and customer complaints, implementing corrective actions where necessary.
- Fleet Management
- Ensure vehicles are available, roadworthy, maintained, serviced and repaired in accordance with legal and company and operational requirements.
- Monitor vehicle defects, fleet availability, cleanliness and utilisation.
- Liaise with maintenance providers and contractors to minimise vehicle downtime.
- Depot Management
- Take responsibility for the safe, secure and efficient management of the transport depot.
- Customer & Business Performance
- Build effective relationships with customers, suppliers and internal departments.
- Resolve service issues professionally and identify opportunities to improve customer satisfaction.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
- Performance and Compliance
- Monitor driver performance using telematics, KPIs and Operational reporting
- Address performance concerns through coaching, file notes and escalation where appropriate
- Investigate vehicle incidents, customer complaints and operational issues, escalating significant matters
The base working hours for the role are Monday to Friday 08.00-17.00, including additional flexibility to meet business requirements including the weekend rota and on call and cover for Transport Management/Supervision.
- Working hours are ;
- Week 1 - Monday to Friday 09.00-18.00
- Week 2 - Tuesday to Friday 09.00-18.00 and Saturday 06.00-22.00
Additionally, flexibility may be required to meet business needs.
We would welcome applications with experience in the following areas: distribution, logistics, route planning, scheduling and as a Transport Manager, Transport Depot Manager, Transport Operations Manager, or Transport Supervisor.
Benefits Discounted staff sales 20 days holiday plus some bank holidays Service holidays after 5 years of service Employee of the Month bonus On-site car parking Attendance Bonus Holiday Christmas Gift Benefits Staff sales 20 days holiday plus bank holidays Free car parking Birthday voucher
Requirements
You will have proven experience in a similar role in transport/logistics in a fast-paced environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to lead and motivate your team and build strong relationships across the business.
Excellent commercial acumen as you will have considerable budget responsibility.
Excellent working knowledge of driver's hours, transport compliance, WTD, and tachograph legislation.
Experience in using route planning software.
Excellent organisation skills.
Proven experience in working towards KPIs.
Good IT skills, particularly Microsoft applications.
A full UK driving licence.
FLT counterbalance licence (desirable)
Transport Manager in Irlam employer: Birtwistles Food Group
Birtwistles Food Group is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and customer service. With competitive benefits such as 4 weeks of holiday and staff sales, employees have the opportunity to thrive in their roles while enjoying a flexible schedule. Working from our Milton Keynes depot, you'll be part of a dedicated team that prioritises professional growth and a rewarding work environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transport Manager in Irlam
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like Birtwistles Food Group.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by Birtwistles Food Group. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Transport Manager in Irlam
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at Birtwistles Food Group, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at Birtwistles Food Group and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into Birtwistles Food Group. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birtwistles Food Group
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at Birtwistles Food Group.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to Birtwistles Food Group.