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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 customer-focused service.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ 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 in Poole 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 in Poole
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or at local transport events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Operations Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Go South Coast and their operational strategies. We want to see your passion for operational excellence shine through, so think about how your experience aligns with their goals and be ready to share specific examples.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! During interviews, highlight your experience in leading teams and driving performance. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others, so don’t hold back on sharing your success stories.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director in Poole
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 the job description.
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, emphasise your strategic mindset and hands-on operational capability. We’re looking for someone who can not only lead but also develop and implement effective strategies that align with our goals.
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 allow you to 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, particularly in fast-paced environments. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop others, as well as how you've navigated challenges in employee relations.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Be ready to discuss your experience with budgets and KPIs. Bring specific examples of how you've improved financial performance in previous roles. This will reassure them that you can manage resources effectively while driving operational excellence.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about their operational strategies, safety culture, and future goals. This shows that you're not just interested in the role, but also in how you can contribute to their success.