Transport Manager

Vanrath is working with a well-established transport and logistics organisation to appoint an experienced Transport Manager to take full responsibility for a busy, multi-depot operation based in Derry.

This is a senior, hands-on leadership role where you will manage the driver team, oversee day-to-day logistics, and ensure full legal compliance and high health and safety standards across the operation.

About the Role

As Transport Manager, you will lead the transport team with a strong focus on managing drivers and logistics while ensuring the operation runs safely, legally, and efficiently. You will handle issues as they arise, manage a wide range of situations with sound judgement, and keep the operation cost-effective while delivering a reliable, customer-focused service. Reporting to the Operations Director, you will act as the senior operational lead across all depot locations.

Key Responsibilities

• Take overall management responsibility for daily transport operations across all depot locations
• Plan and optimise HGV routing and scheduling to maximise efficiency
• Coordinate vehicle logistics and daily deliveries across depots in a cost-effective way and in line with current legislation
• Oversee driver time management in line with company policy and legislation, covering rotas, timesheets, tachographs, and availability
• Maintain quality control and regular stock checks across depot operations
• Support the HR function with driver inductions, appraisals, disciplinary matters, performance reviews, and training
• Investigate and resolve incidents involving driver conduct or vehicle and property damage, escalating to directors where required
• Ensure drivers meet all compliance requirements, including uniforms, PPE, company procedures, and professional certifications
• Manage day-to-day health and safety procedures and policies across the transport function
• Ensure all transport administration and operational records are maintained to legislative and company standards
• Work with senior colleagues to keep policies and procedures current, efficient, and effective
• Provide operational cover across other depots during holidays or absence

What We're Looking For

• Proven managerial experience within the transport or logistics sector
• Strong working knowledge of transport regulations and compliance
• Category C+E licence (preferred)
• Good geographic knowledge of Northern Ireland, ideally with experience of planning and scheduling systems (desirable)
• Forklift licence (desirable)
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, able to lead a diverse team
• A clear communicator who listens well and builds effective working relationships
• Practical, pragmatic, and comfortable in a fast-paced environment
• Confident using Microsoft Word and Excel

What's On Offer

• Competitive salary dependent on experience
• Performance-related bonus
• Senior operational role with genuine responsibility and autonomy
• The opportunity to lead a busy, multi-depot transport operation
• Long-term career development within an established and growing business

Skills:
transport planner analyst logistics supervisor CPC transport manager

Benefits:
Fantastic Benefits Package