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- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to ensure safe and efficient bus operations.
- Company: Join Go South Coast, an award-winning bus company focused on community service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Drive operational excellence in a fast-paced transport environment that values safety and performance.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in transport operations and strong stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Be part of a growing team with a commitment to high-quality service.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic leader with a passion for operational excellence? Do you thrive in a fast-paced transport environment where safety, performance, and people matter most? Join us as our next Operations Director and help drive the continued success of a growing, customer-focused bus and coach company.
About Go South Coast
Go South Coast is an award-winning bus company and part of the wider Go-Ahead Group. We deliver reliable, safe, and high-quality bus services to the communities we serve across a wide operating area including Bournemouth, Poole, Southampton, Salisbury, Swindon and the Isle of Wight. Due to an internal promotion, we’re now looking for an Operations Director to lead our operations and build on the excellent standard already delivered for our customers.
About the Role
As Operations Director, you will have responsibility for the day-to-day operational performance of our bus networks. Reporting to the Managing Director, you will oversee depot operations, service delivery, compliance, and team leadership.
- Lead and inspire operational teams across multiple depots
- Ensure safe, reliable, and punctual service delivery
- Drive performance against KPIs, budgets, and regulatory standards
- Champion a strong safety culture and compliance framework
- Lead on employee relations and negotiations
- Develop and implement operational strategy aligned with company goals
- Build strong relationships with local authorities and stakeholders
- Lead, coach, and develop operational team
About You
We are seeking a motivated and capable operational leader with significant experience in the bus, coach, or wider transport sector. You will bring:
- Proven senior leadership experience in bus or transport operations
- Strong knowledge of regulatory and safety requirements
- Demonstrable success in improving performance and efficiency
- Financial acumen
- Exceptional people leadership and stakeholder management skills
- A strategic mindset with hands-on operational capability
A Transport Manager CPC (or equivalent) is highly desirable. Apply now by submitting your CV and a covering letter outlining your experience and vision for operational excellence. Email: jana.cotterill-clark@gosouthcoast.co.uk Deadline: Friday 10th April 2026.
Operations Director employer: Go South Coast Ltd
Contact Detail:
Go South Coast Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and attend relevant events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an Operations Director role or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Go South Coast and their operational strategies. Show us that you understand their mission and how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your leadership skills and safety culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. Remind them of your passion for operational excellence and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining the Go South Coast team.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Director role. Highlight your experience in bus or transport operations, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills and any relevant achievements that align with operational excellence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to outline your vision for operational excellence and how your background makes you the perfect fit for Go South Coast. Keep it engaging and personal – we want to see your passion!
Showcase Your Strategic Mindset: In both your CV and cover letter, demonstrate your strategic mindset. Talk about how you've developed and implemented operational strategies in the past, and how you plan to do the same at Go South Coast.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Go South Coast Ltd
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into Go South Coast's operations. Familiarise yourself with their bus networks, safety protocols, and performance metrics. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their operational goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As an Operations Director, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in fast-paced environments. Be ready to discuss how you inspire and motivate your team while ensuring compliance and safety.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since financial management is key for this role, brush up on your budgeting and KPI tracking skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've improved efficiency and performance through financial strategies in previous roles. This will highlight your capability to drive operational success.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
Understanding the importance of stakeholder management is vital. Think of examples where you've successfully built relationships with local authorities or other stakeholders. This will demonstrate your ability to navigate the complexities of the transport sector and enhance service delivery.