At a Glance
- Tasks: Create efficient transport plans and manage a dedicated team of drivers.
- Company: Join James Latham, a family-owned leader in timber distribution since 1757.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension contributions, bonuses, and health benefits.
- Other info: Great career stability with a company that values long-term employees.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team where your skills make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport management and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
James Latham is one of the UK's largest independent trade distributors of timber, panels and decorative surfaces. As a long-established, family‑owned business with history back to 1757, we believe our success is down to our employees and are proud to say that many of our team stay with us for decades. In a recent survey 86% said they would recommend James Latham as a great place to work.
We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Transport Planner/Manager to oversee our transport operations and ensure full compliance with UK regulations. This role is key to maintaining efficient fleet performance, driver compliance and excellent delivery service. The successful candidate will be based at our Yate depot and will be working on a shift pattern of 10am to 7pm Monday to Friday.
Key Responsibilities- Create daily transport plans for deliveries of timber and sheet materials throughout the South‑West and South Wales region, ensuring efficient routing and scheduling.
- Optimise rigid vehicle fleet utilisation and reduce operational costs.
- Manage and support drivers, including training and performance reviews.
- Ensure full compliance with Operator Licence and tachograph regulations.
- Monitor driver hours, working time directive and compliance records.
- Oversee vehicle maintenance schedules.
- Investigate incidents, accidents and compliance breaches.
- Maintain accurate transport documentation and records.
- Proven experience in a senior transport position.
- Good knowledge of transport legislation and compliance.
- Excellent organisational and communication skills.
- Strong problem‑solving ability and the capacity to make decisions in fast‑changing operational environments.
- Excellent geographical knowledge.
- Previous experience of using telematics systems.
- Benefits include a competitive salary, up to 7.5% matched pension contributions, bonus schemes, a Health Cash Plan and life assurance.
Transport Manager in Yate employer: James Latham
At James Latham, we pride ourselves on being a family-owned business with a rich history dating back to 1757, where our employees are at the heart of our success. Our Yate depot offers a supportive work culture that values long-term commitment, as evidenced by our high employee retention rate, and provides ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With competitive benefits including a generous pension scheme, bonus opportunities, and a Health Cash Plan, we strive to create a rewarding environment for our Transport Manager to thrive in.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transport Manager in Yate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the transport industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching James Latham and understanding their values and operations. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around compliance and fleet management.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced in transport management and how you tackled them. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in fast-changing environments.
✨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 you’re genuinely interested in joining the James Latham family.
We think you need these skills to ace Transport Manager in Yate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in transport management and compliance. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Transport Manager role at James Latham. Share your passion for transport operations and how you can contribute to our success.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love candidates who can think on their feet and adapt to changing situations, so let us know how you’ve done this!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. 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 James Latham
✨Know Your Transport Legislation
Make sure you brush up on UK transport legislation and compliance regulations before the interview. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they apply to the role will show that you're not just experienced, but also knowledgeable about the legal framework that governs the industry.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed transport operations in the past. Think about times when you created efficient routing plans or optimised fleet utilisation. Sharing these experiences will highlight your organisational skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Transport Manager, you'll need to manage and support drivers effectively. Be ready to discuss how you've communicated with teams in previous roles, especially during training or performance reviews. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and motivate others.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Telematics Systems
If you have experience with telematics systems, be sure to mention it! If not, do a bit of research on how these systems work and their benefits for fleet management. Showing that you're proactive about learning can set you apart from other candidates.
