Transport and Distribution Manager in Wigan

Overview

This is a key management role with responsibility for ensuring that our transport operations are safe, legally compliant, operationally efficient and commercially effective.

The successful candidate will oversee fleet compliance, vehicle maintenance, driver management, transport documentation and day-to-day operational performance, ensuring that all activities meet relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

The appointed individual will also be expected to act as the nominated Transport Manager for our proposed Operator’s Licence, subject to meeting the applicable legal, professional competence and regulatory requirements.

We are looking for a proactive and organised leader with strong attention to detail, excellent management skills and the ability to balance regulatory compliance, customer service and commercial objectives while maintaining high operational standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide continuous and effective management of the transport operation, ensuring vehicles, drivers, records and systems remain under proper professional control.
• Ensure full compliance with Operator Licence undertakings, authorised operating centre requirements, vehicle authorisations and all relevant transport legislation.
• Oversee vehicle roadworthiness: manage planned maintenance, safety inspection schedules, MOT preparation, defect reporting, repair sign-off and maintenance records.
• Monitor drivers' hours, working time and tachograph compliance, ensuring downloads, analysis, infringement reviews and corrective actions are completed within required timescales.
• Lead, coach and develop the transport team, ensuring drivers and colleagues understand and follow company procedures, safe systems of work and legal requirements.
• Maintain compliance records including driver licence checks, Driver CPC, training records, vehicle files, incidents, audits and corrective action logs.
• Plan and manage resources to achieve customer service, operational, budgetary and KPI targets while ensuring all work is planned legally, safely and cost effectively.
• Investigate compliance failures, incidents, tachograph infringements and service issues identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
• Work closely with workshops, suppliers, insurers, customers and internal stakeholders to maintain safe, compliant and efficient operations.
• Manage driver behaviour, performance, absence and disciplinary matters in line with company HR policies.
• Support recruitment, onboarding and training for transport colleagues.
• Maintain profit and loss accountability for the transport function, identifying opportunities

Essential Requirements

• Hold an International or National Transport Manager CPC qualification, or be actively working towards obtaining one. Candidates studying towards the qualification must provide proof of enrolment.
• At least one year of demonstrable senior-level experience in transport, distribution or logistics management.
• Good working knowledge of Operator Licence compliance, vehicle maintenance, drivers’ hours, working time regulations and tachograph management.
• Experience managing transport teams, driver performance, audits, investigations and corrective actions.
• Commercial awareness and experience managing budgets, KPIs and operational performance.
• Strong leadership, communication, organisation and decision-making skills.
• A proactive approach to risk management, compliance and continuous improvement.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

• The following would be advantageous:
• An RQF Level 7 postgraduate qualification, such as an MSc in Transport, Logistics or Management, or an equivalent qualification.
• Experience working in a Delivery Service Partner (DSP), courier or last-mile delivery environment.
• IOSH Managing Safely qualification

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £44,900 per annum.
• Company pension contribution.
• Personal development and training opportunities.
• Onsite parking.
• The opportunity to shape and lead the transport compliance function of a growing logistics business.

Operator Licence Information

Packrunner Logistics Ltd intends to apply for a Standard National Operator Licence. The appointment of an appropriately qualified Transport Manager is a key requirement for the application. Candidates who are actively acquiring their Transport Manager CPC qualification are welcome to apply. Any appointment and nomination will be subject to the applicable legal and qualification requirements.

Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship

Packrunner Logistics Ltd is applying for a UK Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence. Sponsorship may be considered for a suitable candidate under the Skilled Worker route, subject to the company obtaining the required licence and the candidate and role meeting all applicable immigration requirements. All suitably qualified applicants are welcome to apply and will be assessed on merit. UK-resident candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a cover letter

In your application, please confirm whether you hold the National or International Transport Manager CPC qualification or are currently working towards it. If you are studying towards the qualification, please include proof of enrolment. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged.

Equal Opportunities

Packrunner Logistics Ltd is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive and professional team that reflects the communities we serve.