Planning / CI Manager

We are seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking individual to lead the Planning and Continuous Improvement functions within our dedicated distribution operation. Working alongside internal and external teams, you will drive optimal planning performance, cost efficiency, and customer satisfaction. This role is ideal for someone looking to grow within the business unit and the wider organisation. You’ll be supported by a tailored development plan, sponsored at the appropriate level and owned by you.

This field-based role covers five key sites, with a focus on our customer production locations in Barnsley and Stoke but with a requirement to engage with teams based across our UK locations (internal and external) to ensure best practice.

Pay, benefits and more

We’re looking to offer a salary of up to £47,500 per annum plus company car/car allowance. In addition, we offer 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays), as well as the option to buy additional days. You’ll have access to a variety of high street discounts, as well as a cycle to work scheme, a workplace pension, private healthcare and dental cover and many other perks.

What you’ll do on a typical day / key responsibilities

• Service: Own delivery performance, meeting KPIs and SLAs.
• Budget: Manage daily/weekly financial targets.
• CI: Lead improvement initiatives to boost efficiency and customer value.
• Strategic Impact: Drive business and customer objectives. Build strong relationships and identify growth opportunities. Challenge processes to improve performance. Report on CI outcomes.
• Communication: Communicate clearly and professionally. Maintain effective collaboration across teams.
• Service Excellence: Ensure consistent delivery and resolve issues effectively.
• People Leadership: Build high‑performing teams. Lead recruitment, development, and succession planning.
• Decision‑Making: Make informed decisions and drive improvements.

What you need to succeed at XPO

• Proven track record in transport operations and customer service excellence
• Strong stakeholder engagement and leadership presence
• Lean/Six Sigma and / or Project Background
• Skilled in TMS/WMS/ERP systems
• Constructive, pragmatic, and growth‑oriented mindset

Be part of something big.

We strive to create an inclusive environment for all our colleagues, where everyone feels welcomed, empowered and where you can bring your true self to work. You may not feel you tick all of the boxes we have written above, so even if your experience doesn’t precisely match the job description but you feel you have the skills needed, please feel free to reach out to our recruitment team for an initial discussion. Your skills and passion set you apart and we welcome diverse people and perspectives at XPO. We encourage applications from people of all different backgrounds and identities. To empower you to do as well as possible during the recruitment process, if you require any changes or amendments to our application and interviews, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

XPO is a leading provider of world‑class solutions to the most successful companies in the world. We help our customers manage their goods most efficiently using our technology and services. Our greatest strength is our global team – energetic, innovative people of all experience levels and talents who make XPO a great place to work.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Review XPO\’s candidate privacy statement here.