Transport Operations Manager - Container Logistics

Are you an experienced Transport Operations Manager with a proven track record in container logistics? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same and where your leadership can directly influence operational performance and customer satisfaction?

Our client is seeking a commercially minded and highly motivated Operations Manager to take ownership of a busy container transport operation. This is a key leadership position responsible for driving operational efficiency, supporting and developing a team of Transport Operators, and ensuring the highest levels of service across a growing customer base.

If you have extensive container haulage experience, strong planning expertise and a passion for leading people, we'd love to hear from you.

As Operations Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day running of the transport operation, ensuring fleet resources are utilised effectively while maintaining exceptional service standards.

Working closely with customers, drivers, planners and senior management, you will play a pivotal role in the continued success and growth of the business.

Key areas of responsibility include:

• Leading, mentoring and developing a team of Transport Operators.
• Managing transport operations across key UK ports including Felixstowe, London Gateway and Southampton.
• Driving operational performance through effective planning and resource allocation.
• Monitoring revenue performance, service delivery and operational efficiencies.
• Working closely with fleet management teams to maintain positive driver engagement and communication.
• Managing operational challenges and implementing solutions to minimise disruption.
• Overseeing Vehicle Booking System (VBS) activity and identifying opportunities to reduce unnecessary costs.
• Acting as the primary escalation point for operational issues, customer enquiries and service-related concerns.
• Producing and reviewing operational KPI reports, analysing trends and identifying areas for improvement.
• Ensuring compliance with company procedures, industry regulations and customer requirements.
• Supporting wider business operations, including occasional travel to other company locations when required.

The successful candidate will bring a strong blend of operational expertise, leadership capability and commercial awareness.

You'll ideally have:

• At least five years' experience managing transport operations within the container haulage sector.
• Extensive experience planning and coordinating container transport movements.
• Strong leadership experience with the ability to motivate, support and develop high-performing teams.
• A thorough understanding of UK port operations and Vehicle Booking Systems.
• Knowledge of transport legislation, including Working Time Directive and EU Driver Hours regulations.
• Experience using transport management systems, with TOPS experience highly desirable.
• Excellent geographical knowledge of the UK road network.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• The confidence to make decisions in a fast-moving operational environment.
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A proactive, organised and solutions-focused approach.

• Salary of £55,000 - £60,000 depending on experience.
• Company car.
• 45-hour working week operating between 07:00 and 18:00.
• Opportunity to join a successful and expanding transport business.
• 23 days annual leave, increasing with service up to 25 days.
• Additional birthday leave after successful completion of probation.
• Life Assurance scheme.
• Company pension.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Health and wellbeing subscription.
• Free on-site parking.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious transport professional to join a well-established operation and play a key role in shaping its future success.

If you have any questions please dont hesitate in contacting Simon Rapley - (url removed)

ARC Recruitment operates in accordance with the Employment Agencies Act 1973, the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations 2003, and all applicable UK employment legislation. We are committed to equal opportunities and comply with the Equality Act 2010 and all relevant data protection laws, including UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.