Transport Operations Assistant

We are seeking a highly organised and analytical Transport Planning & Operations Assistant to join our Transport Team. This is a key support role within our Planning, Delivery and Support functions, ensuring the smooth coordination of cost‑effective and efficient transport journeys in line with our business rules and customer service standards. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience across all areas of transport operations and the wider travel and logistics industry, providing a strong foundation for a career in this field.

You will work closely with planning, delivery and support teams, communicating confidently with colleagues, customers and third‑party suppliers both by phone and email to ensure every journey runs smoothly. You will be joining a passionate and dedicated team that is committed to delivering excellent service while maintaining a supportive and collaborative environment. With strong Excel and data analysis skills, you will help ensure accurate planning, responsive decision making and the consistent delivery of an outstanding customer experience.

• Due to the nature of the role and because the operational team operates 24/7 from our offices, occasional flexible shift patterns will be a requirement. Candidates will need to be within a commutable distance to Crawley. There may be occasional work from home, but the majority of shifts will be from our office base.
• Maintain and administer master route planning data, ensuring all systems and databases are accurate and up to date to support effective journey delivery.
• Support Transport Planners and the Team Leader in producing cost‑effective and efficient journey plans in line with business rules and service standards.
• Manage operational changes and queries (including amendments, cancellations and customer requirements), ensuring routing efficiency and driver compliance are maintained.
• Monitor flights, traffic and weather conditions, adapting transport plans in real time to accommodate last‑minute changes and ensure smooth driver coordination.
• Communicate effectively with customers, drivers, colleagues and third‑party suppliers, providing clear information on pick‑ups, mobility, luggage and journey arrangements.
• Produce and maintain journey documentation and reporting, including customer pick‑up times, overall mileages and data required for internal budget tracking.
• Handle inbound and outbound calls, resolving customer and supplier queries with a strong focus on delivering exceptional service.
• Work collaboratively across the wider transport operation, meeting daily, weekly and monthly deadlines while maintaining clear and cohesive communication across teams.

• Experience in an administrative and/or customer service–based role, ideally within a fast‑paced operational environment.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office packages, particularly Excel, with the ability to analyse and consolidate data.
• Excellent administrative and organisational skills, with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• The ability to prioritise effectively, exercise sound judgement and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including a confident and professional telephone manner.
• A proactive and adaptable approach, responding positively to change in a dynamic operational environment.
• A positive, collaborative mindset with a genuine commitment to delivering excellent customer service.

• Geographic knowledge of the UK road network and postcode areas.
• Experience with in a Transport or logistics environment.

Over the past 75 years we have become the UK's specialist provider of products and services to people aged over 50 in the UK. We're the most trusted brand amongst UK consumers in this demographic, recognised for high‑quality products and exceptional standards of service. Our product portfolio includes cruises, holidays, insurance, personal finance products and our Saga Magazine.

Our focus on delivering exceptional products and service empowers our colleagues to create moments that are personal and special for our customers and for each other and our values…