At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in managing national transport operations and ensure exceptional customer service.
- Company: Join the UK's largest employee-owned business, John Lewis, and be part of a supportive partnership.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, competitive pay, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values diversity, teamwork, and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in transport management while embracing innovation and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport leadership and a valid UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
A Department Manager, JL Primary Transport, you will need to provide strong leadership across the national Transport operations network, with full responsibility and accountability for managing the 24-hour, 7-day-a-week national transport operation. You will lead a team of Managers, Transport office Partners, Partner Drivers and Agency Drivers. Ensure full legal compliance with current EU driving legislation and the Working Time Directive. To deliver exceptional on-time, in-full customer service, whilst ensuring that the department is cost-effective. To influence the future Transport strategy using innovation and technology to ensure continual success of the operation and to meet the growth requirements of the business. To deliver industry-leading transport strategies across the operation and as part of the wider Transport management team.
Key responsibilities:
- Ensure full legislative compliance across all transport operations, including EU driving regulations, the Working Time Directive, and health & safety guidelines.
- Oversee a diverse fleet (tractors, trailers, and rigid vehicles) while driving progress toward operational sustainability goals.
- Serve as network Duty Manager on a planned rotating basis (24/7 operational cover), supporting branches, National Distribution Centres, and the wider transport network.
- Support the development and delivery of strategic business plans for the Primary John Lewis Transport.
- Manage operational budgets, control costs, and conduct variance and root-cause analyses.
- Work collaboratively across Central Transport, Customer Delivery Hubs, Waitrose, and e-commerce teams to share best practices and drive fleet efficiencies.
- Lead operational change constructively, supporting colleagues and team members (Partners) through skill development and coaching.
- Recognise team contributions and manage performance constructively, supporting direct reports to develop their leadership skills.
Essential Skills/experience You’ll Need:
- Full, valid UK driving licence.
- Experience of leading a team in a Transport or Distribution environment.
- Certificate of Professional Competency qualification for Transport Managers (Road Haulage) or able to achieve this qualification within a discussed timeframe.
Desirable Skills/experience You May Have:
- Experience of leading a team of managers.
- Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) Managing Safely qualification.
- National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) General Certificate.
- Familiar with vehicle telematics systems, preferably Microlise.
- Familiar with transport planning and execution systems, preferably Microlise or Paragon.
- Familiar with transport compliance software, particularly Vision.
- Familiarity with fleet management software, particularly JAAMA (Workshop maintenance).
Please note that if your application is successful, we will be conducting 2 stage assessment (a screening call and an interview assessment).
Important points to note:
- It’s important to note that some of our roles are subject to pre-employment vetting (which may include DBS checks for successful candidates).
- We occasionally close vacancies early in the event we receive a high volume of applications, and therefore, we recommend you apply early.
- If you require a reasonable adjustment due to a disability which means you may need longer to complete your application please contact us as soon as possible.
- We want all of our Partners to have a good work-life balance and we support flexible working.
Department Manager, John Lewis Transport employer: John Lewis & Partners
John Lewis & Partners is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment where you can grow and develop your skills as a Driver Technician Trainee. With a comprehensive 3-month training programme, you'll gain valuable qualifications while working alongside a dedicated team in a culture that values collaboration and customer service. Located in the UK, this role not only provides competitive benefits but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in customers' lives through home installations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Department Manager, John Lewis Transport
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like John Lewis & Partners.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by John Lewis & Partners. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Department Manager, John Lewis Transport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at John Lewis & Partners, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at John Lewis & Partners and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into John Lewis & Partners. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at John Lewis & Partners
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at John Lewis & Partners.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to John Lewis & Partners.
