Operations Supervisor in Blantyre

About First Bus

Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward‑thinking company that embraces cutting‑edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.

We have a fantastic opportunity for an Operations Supervisor to join our Blantyre depot. This is a full‑time permanent position. The successful candidate will ensure the provision of a safe, punctual, reliable and cost‑effective delivery of services by managing the flow of drivers and vehicles out of the depot, along route and back into the depot within the operational excellence framework. You will also be required to identify and resolve day‑to‑day operational issues, which include schedules, allocations, vehicle performance and driver queries, while engaging with front‑line colleagues and providing updates and escalating key issues or concerns to the line manager.

Key Accountabilities

• Forward planning on‑day service requirements through to end‑of‑day and future days, including covering on the day absence.
• In a smaller depot, monitor and proactively manage service punctuality and availability, through the use of systems highlighted in the systems matrices.
• Support driver queries in a timely manner and oversee driver reporting.
• Ensure accurate capture and recording of drivers' hours, duties and attendance in the DAS GUI system.
• Maintain accurate records for all aspects of operational standards and performance.
• Analyse and manage information and systems, to proactively ensure continuous improvement of service performance.
• Ensure drivers are allocated the correct vehicle and leave the depot on time.
• Deal with telephone queries and support the satisfactory resolution of customer queries.
• Ensure a comprehensive hand‑over and coordination across shifts.
• Manage the collection of cash from depots in line with company procedures.
• Live input of lost/additional mileage when dealing with unexpected events (eg breakdowns).
• Ensure depot equipment is logged and maintained and that sufficient levels of stock are available, including ticket machines, driver equipment, cash machines and ticket rolls etc.
• Carry out investigations of incidents and prepare reports detailing findings and recommendations.
• Work alongside depot operational and engineering team members, fostering excellent working relationships to effectively manage all aspects of on‑time performance, including vehicle allocation, breakdowns and changeovers.
• Ensure an effective working relationship with recognised trade union representatives and officials.
• Comply with requisition to pay procedures and delegated authorities.
• Other duties commensurate with the role as may be deemed appropriate by the line manager.

Skills & Experience

• Previous management or supervisory experience (within the bus/transport industry preferred, but not essential).
• Excellent computer skills.
• Professional knowledge of Road Traffic Act and Employment legislation.
• Ability to lead and inspire people to seek and follow operational best practice.
• Knowledge of employment legislation.
• Excellent planning and prioritising.
• Self‑motivated with a positive approach to change.
• Customer focus.

Benefits

• Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you. This offering includes cashback benefits across optical and dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advice.
• EAP provision offers 24‑hour, 365 days a year mental health support.
• We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high‑street brands and supermarkets etc.
• Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays.
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares.
• Enhanced maternity / paternity pay.

Equal Opportunities

Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities, and people. We welcome applications from all. We are always looking for skilled and talented people to join us across our sixty‑plus depots from Aberdeen to Truro.