Transport Operations Manager

Location: Kent
Salary: upto £55,000 DOE + Benefits

I'm currently working with a well-established and growing logistics business to recruit a Transport Operations Manager to take full ownership of a busy and fast-paced transport operation in Kent.

This is a key leadership role where you will hold the Operator Licence and take responsibility for ensuring a safe, compliant, and high-performing transport function - with a strong focus on pallet network operations.

Reporting into senior leadership, you will lead the day-to-day transport operation, ensuring service excellence, cost control, and full regulatory compliance, while driving continuous improvement across the network.

• Full accountability for transport operations, including planning, routing, and execution
• Acting as the named O Licence holder, ensuring full compliance with DVSA and regulatory requirements
• Leading and developing a team of drivers, planners, and transport supervisors
• Managing performance across key KPIs including OTIF, cost per delivery, utilisation, and service
• Overseeing pallet network operations, including trunking, hub interaction, and last-mile delivery performance
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives across fleet utilisation, route planning, and cost efficiency
• Managing fleet performance, maintenance schedules, and external supplier relationships
• Ensuring strong Health & Safety and compliance culture across the operation
• Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders, customers, and network partners

• Proven experience in a Transport Manager / Operations Manager role within a pallet network environment
• Strong knowledge of palletised distribution, hub operations, and network dynamics
• CPC qualified with the ability to hold an Operator Licence
• Demonstrable experience managing busy, high-volume transport operations
• Strong leadership capability with experience managing drivers and transport teams
• Commercially aware with a track record of improving service, cost, and efficiency
• Excellent understanding of transport compliance, DVSA regulations, and fleet management

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