Transport Operations Manager in Belfast

Inclusion IQ is thrilled to partner with our multi-award-winning client, a market leader currently expanding its service offerings to international partners. We are seeking to appoint a competent Transport Operations Manager to join their dynamic team, based at their Northern Ireland Headquarters in Lisburn. This is an opportunity to join a financially robust organisation that has been operational for over 50 years and is forecast to experience massive international growth over the next three years, creating exceptional progression opportunities for the successful applicant.

The Role

• Operational Oversight: Manage day-to-day transport operations across NI & GB, ensuring the fleet operates safely, efficiently, and effectively, including the integration of sustainable, alternative-fuel vehicles.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and motivate the transport team. You will balance long-term strategic objectives with the fast-paced challenges of a busy logistics environment, keeping colleague engagement and positive workplace culture at the forefront.
• Systems & Process Improvement: Drive continuous improvement by reviewing system designs and processes. You will play a key role in supporting business change and optimising transport planning and journey management systems.
• Data & Reporting: Create, develop, and analyse operational reports to track performance, presenting clear findings and strategic recommendations directly to the board.
• Compliance & Safety: Take direct responsibility for all aspects of transport and operational legislation, ensuring strict adherence while actively championing health, safety, and well-being across the team.
• Commercial Growth & Efficiency: Identify opportunities to optimise commercial performance. This includes balancing the in-house fleet and sub-contractors, maximising vehicle utilisation, improving load fill, and managing the departmental budget effectively.
• Customer Excellence: Ensure the team consistently delivers for customers—on time, in full, and within agreed SLAs—while fostering a proactive, service-first culture.
• People Management: Oversee day-to-day people matters for the department, including resource and capacity planning, absence management, and supporting positive employee relations.

The Person

To be considered for this position, applicants must demonstrate the following skills & experiences:

• Minimum 5 years of dedicated experience managing transport operations within a busy logistics and supply chain environment.
• A track record of working closely and effectively with other core business functions, including Warehouse, Commercial, Customs, Finance, and HR.
• Strong understanding of commercial and financial operations, with practical experience managing budgets and controlling costs within a transport department.
• Have an in-depth understanding of modern (TMS) and fleet technologies, alongside the ability to use this data to inform commercial decisions.
• Have a demonstrated ability to guide teams through operational changes, introduce continuous improvements, and support staff development and upskilling.
• Understand the fundamentals of fleet procurement processes and stay well-informed about emerging industry technologies.
• Excellent communicator who excels at building strong customer partnerships and delivering practical, value-added solutions.

Why this role?

• Full-Time Permanent Role.
• Additional Annual Leave for each year of service.
• Matched employee/employer pension contribution.
• Life & death in service insurance.
• Certified Training Courses.
• Additional Company Benefits.
• Free Onsite Parking.
• Employee Discounts.