At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily transport operations and ensure efficient, safe service delivery.
- Company: Join DFDS, a key player in European transport infrastructure.
- Benefits: Enjoy life assurance, pension scheme, free ferry travel, and wellness support.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive team with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of transport while making a real impact in communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport management and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
Do you want to be a valued part of the critical infrastructure that serves communities across Europe and beyond? Are you looking for a position in which you can set direction and help shape our company? If so, then you could be the newest addition to our team as Transport Operations Manager. Be part of the movement - and play your part.
About the role
As Transport Operations Manager, you’ll take full responsibility for the day-to-day management, performance and development of our Kettering transport operation. You’ll lead the Palletline operation, DFDS-owned fleet and third-party transport partners, ensuring we deliver a safe, compliant, efficient and customer-focused service. Working closely with the Killingholme Transport team, you’ll also play a key role in maximising fleet utilisation across the UK. From identifying backload opportunities and reducing empty running to improving route planning and operational efficiency, you’ll be responsible for finding practical solutions that improve both service and commercial performance.
You will be responsible for:
- Leading and overseeing the daily transport operation at Kettering, ensuring safe, compliant and efficient delivery of services.
- Managing DFDS-owned vehicles and third-party hauliers, monitoring performance, costs, service levels and compliance.
- Working closely with the Palletline network and operational partners to maintain service standards and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Collaborating with the Killingholme Transport team to plan backloads, reduce empty mileage and maximise vehicle utilisation across the UK.
- Monitoring operational KPIs, costs and profitability, using performance data to identify improvements and support the continued growth of the transport operation.
About you
You’ll be an experienced transport professional with a strong background in transport operations management, fleet planning and utilisation. You’ll have a good understanding of UK transport legislation and compliance, alongside experience managing subcontractors, third-party transport providers and, ideally, pallet network operations such as Palletline. Commercially aware and confident working with operational data, you’ll be able to identify opportunities to improve performance, control costs and maximise fleet efficiency.
You’ll be a confident communicator and strong relationship builder, with the ability to manage stakeholders across multiple locations and departments. Organised, analytical and solutions-focused, you’ll be comfortable making decisions in a fast-paced environment and finding practical ways to improve the operation. A National CPC qualification is essential, with experience of domestic transport planning, backloads and knowledge of the Humberside, Midlands or Felixstowe transport markets being desirable.
We think the strongest teams are built on diversity and inclusivity. Contrasting opinions, varied skills and strong characters bring out the best in us all. And we cannot wait for you to join.
Working at DFDS
Join the movement and grow with us. Now about what we can give you. You’ll be able to access some fantastic benefits such as:
- Life assurance cover
- Contributory company pension scheme
- Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Free ferry travel for up to 4 guests between Dover and Calais / Newcastle and Amsterdam with no limit on trips
- Full employee assistance programme including: Proactive financial, emotional, mental, and physical health care support including face to face counselling, fast 24/7 access to a GP, a second medical opinion and legal support for colleagues and their family.
- Huge range of retail discounts from high street and online retailers
- Cashback on health care including dental, optical, physiotherapy, prescriptions, specialist consultations and much more.
- Access to myStrength, our Wellbeing platform, which has plenty of content to support and improve your mental wellness needs.
- Access to mental health first aid and opportunity to join support webinars with a focus on all areas of positive wellbeing.
While you’re with us, we want you to develop. At DFDS, we believe that development happens first and foremost through activities in the workplace. We will also offer training courses that can support you in your role, if needed.
Are we a match? Then what are you waiting for? Apply Now.
If you think your personality, skills, experience, and desire match this role, we’d love to hear from you. Please send us your CV as soon as possible, as we’re keen to meet potential candidates on an ongoing basis.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Transport Operations Manager employer: DFDS
At DFDS, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment where safety and professionalism are paramount. As an ADR Class 1 HGV Driver in Kettering, you'll enjoy a range of benefits including life assurance, a contributory pension scheme, and free ferry travel for you and your guests, all while being part of a diverse team that values inclusivity and personal growth. We are committed to your development, providing training opportunities and a comprehensive employee assistance programme to ensure your wellbeing and career progression.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transport Operations Manager
✨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 DFDS.
✨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 DFDS. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Transport Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at DFDS, 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 DFDS 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 DFDS. 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 DFDS
✨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 DFDS.
✨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 DFDS.
