At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fleet operations, drive performance, and implement innovative engineering solutions.
- Company: Gist, a dynamic logistics company partnered with M&S.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, 25 days leave, and amazing discounts.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of logistics while being your authentic self.
- Qualifications: Experience in fleet engineering and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Working in partnership with M&S, at Gist we deliver industry-leading logistics and supply chain transformation. We value, celebrate, and believe in the power of individuality and strive to create a work environment where everyone can be themselves. We want you to join us, bring your authentic self to work and unlock your full potential.
As the Fleet Engineering Manager at our Thatcham site, you'll play a key leadership role in shaping the future of our fleet operation. With responsibility for the Vehicle Maintenance Unit (VMU), fleet assets, and Material Handling Equipment (MHE), you'll drive operational performance, engineering standards, compliance, and continuous improvement across a critical part of the business. This is an exciting opportunity to influence strategy, lead change, and deliver long-term improvements that enhance reliability, efficiency, and service performance.
Working alongside senior stakeholders, including Regional Engineering Manager, Site General Manager, Health, Safety and Wellbeing Manager, and fellow Fleet Engineering Managers, you'll have the platform to make a real impact while developing a high-performing engineering operation for the future. If you're passionate about engineering leadership, operational excellence, and driving meaningful change, this is your opportunity to help shape the next chapter of our engineering journey.
PAY AND BENEFITS
- Discretionary annual bonus scheme, based on M&S performance and personal objectives
- Monday – Friday with some flexibility required
- 20% M&S discount on most things from furniture, fashion and food
- 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (rising with length of service)
- Private Medical Insurance + discounted rates on healthcare cash plan
- Auto Enrolment Pension or competitive Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and life assurance (up to 4 times salary)
- Amazing perks and discounts via our App to major restaurants and retailers
- Access to a wide range of wellbeing support – including our Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to work scheme
WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING?
Your key accountabilities will include:
- Lead the strategic development and continuous improvement of the VMU, fleet, and MHE operations, driving performance, safety, and operational excellence.
- Take overall responsibility for VMU service delivery, safety, compliance, and adherence to legal and company standards.
- Develop and implement improvement plans covering people, safety, engineering standards, facilities, equipment, and financial performance.
- Manage team resources, including recruitment, workforce planning, annual leave, and shift patterns, to ensure efficient operations.
- Oversee fleet maintenance planning and service scheduling to maximise vehicle availability and support operational demands.
- Control engineering budgets, financial reporting, and cost management activities to deliver site objectives and value for money.
- Collaborate with site leadership, customers, contractors, and wider business teams to ensure strong service performance, compliance, and operational continuity.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR?
Your skills and experience will include:
- Demonstrable experience working within a fleet engineering, transport, or vehicle maintenance environment, with a strong understanding of operational and engineering best practices.
- Proven experience managing Vehicle Maintenance Units and Fleet Operations ensuring high levels of safety, compliance, reliability, and operational performance.
- Strong technical and analytical capability, with the ability to identify, assess, and mitigate engineering issues and operational risks, while developing and implementing practical, innovative, and cost-effective solutions.
- Qualified in an engineering discipline such as City & Guilds, HNC, HND, degree, or an equivalent engineering qualification.
- Significant experience operating within a unionised environment, with a sound understanding of employee relations, consultation processes, collective agreements, and effective stakeholder management.
WHY JOIN GIST?
At Gist, people are at the heart of everything we do. We’re proud to create an environment where colleagues feel supported, valued, and able to be themselves. Working in partnership with M&S, we’re helping shape the future of retail logistics — and we want great people to be part of that journey.
Fleet Engineering Manager in Thatcham employer: Gist Limited
Gist is an exceptional employer that prioritises individuality and inclusivity, fostering a dynamic work environment where employees can thrive. As a Fleet Engineering Manager at our Thatcham site, you will benefit from a range of perks including a discretionary annual bonus, generous leave, private medical insurance, and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing. With ample opportunities for professional growth and the chance to lead impactful engineering initiatives, Gist offers a rewarding career path in logistics and supply chain transformation.
