Operational Support Manager - Transport in Sunderland

City Hospitals Independent Commercial Enterprises Ltd (CHoICE) is recruiting an Operational Support Manager - Transport. The closing date is 20 February 2026. We are excited to introduce a brand new role within our organisation — one that will play a pivotal part in shaping efficient, sustainable, and future-ready transport solutions. As our Transport Manager, you will take the lead in developing and delivering a high-performing internal transport service that supports every corner of the CHoICE business, undertaking responsibility for the management of Driver and Vehicle compliance.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives on responsibility, enjoys improving systems, and wants to make a meaningful impact on both operational performance and patient care. Transport is at the heart of our clinical and non-clinical operations. From ensuring staff and equipment reach the right place at the right time to maintaining a safe and compliant fleet, your work will directly influence the quality of care we deliver and the efficiency of our services.

We are looking for someone who brings professionalism, strong leadership, and a commitment to best practice — someone who can ensure our transport operations meet the highest standards of safety, compliance, and value for money.

• To lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the NHS transport service, ensuring safe, efficient, cost-effective and legally compliant movement of patients, staff, and goods.
• Develop and maintain transport policies, oversee vehicle maintenance and fleet utilisation, and drive continuous service improvement in line with corporate objectives and sustainability targets.
• Lead and manage CHoICE transport services, including planning, scheduling, and performance monitoring.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation including DVLA, VOSA, and NHS transport standards.
• Manage the Trusts vehicle fleet, including procurement, maintenance, insurance, and fuel efficiency.
• Develop and implement transport policies and procedures.
• Oversee contracts and service level agreements with external transport providers.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), budgets, and service quality.
• Promote sustainable travel initiatives and contribute to the Trusts Green Plan.
• Ensure robust systems are in place for incident reporting, investigation, and resolution.
• Line manage transport staff, including recruitment, training, and performance management.
• Liaise with clinical and non-clinical departments to ensure transport services meet operational needs.
• Represent CHoICE at regional and national transport forums as required.

About us: City Hospitals Independent Commercial Enterprises Ltd (CHoICE - trading since 2014) is a wholly owned subsidiary company of South Tyneside & Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust (STSFT). We provide a full range of Facilities Management, Procurement and Outpatient Pharmacy services. We employ staff in a wide range of functions, ranging from cleaners, porters, engineers, procurement and pharmacists. Commitment, Care and Compassion — our team contributes to the hospital environment, providing safe, secure and comfortable facilities for access by patients, staff and visitors. CHoICE is an exciting place to work that will provide you with an opportunity to grow and develop. Many of our staff work flexibly, including part-time, and we are committed to offering flexible approaches to work where possible. We provide a range of benefits including Fitness Centre (SRH), cycle to work scheme and access to a Childcare Co-ordinator to help staff with childcare arrangements.

We welcome all applications regardless of race, disability, gender, sexual orientation, religion or belief, age, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity and in particular those from under-represented groups.

If you use AI, and it poses a risk to the integrity of your individual recruitment process, we may withdraw your application at any stage of the process.

• Qualifications: NVQ Level 4 or equivalent in Transport or Logistics Management or equivalent professional experience.
• Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in Transport Management.
• Evidence of continued professional development.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• C1 or C category licence (vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes).

• Confidently operate vehicles, including vans and minibuses.
• Perform routine safety checks (tyres, lights, fluids) and oversee completion of driver logs and defect reports.
• Coordinate basic vehicle maintenance, including cleaning and valeting.

• Strong understanding of transport legislation, including DVLA, VOSA, ADR, and NHS transport standards.
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to analyse data and produce clear, actionable reports.
• IT literate, with experience using transport management systems and Microsoft Office.
• Skilled in route planning, contingency scheduling, and resource deployment.
• Understand the function that Facilities Services provide.
• Knowledge of infection control, health & safety, and PPE protocols.

• Proven experience managing or supervising transport operations.
• Experience in staff supervision, performance management, and team development.
• Experience in fleet and asset management, including procurement and maintenance.
• Demonstrated ability to manage service budgets and contracts.
• NHS or similar Management experience at a senior level, including strategic planning.
• Familiarity with NHS governance and working within regulated environments (preferably healthcare or public sector).