<p>An experienced Transportation Manager leads fleet and transport operations to deliver safe, efficient and compliant logistics. This role suits candidates with strong planning, people management and commercial skills. The post requires oversight of drivers, vehicles and third-party carriers to meet service levels and control costs.</p>
<p>This Transportation Manager job description provides a practical template for recruiters and HR professionals seeking a skilled candidate to run transport operations, maintain compliance and improve operational performance.</p>
<h2>Transportation Manager Job Profile</h2>
<p>The Transportation Manager oversees the planning, scheduling and execution of road transport activities. The role focuses on fleet performance, driver welfare, cost control and timely deliveries, ensuring alignment with business objectives and customer expectations.</p>
<p>The post holder will be accountable for route optimisation, transport policy, supplier relationships and regulatory compliance. Strong analytical thinking and effective stakeholder communication are essential to succeed in this role.</p>
<h2>Transportation Manager Job Description</h2>
<p>The Transportation Manager will develop and implement transport strategies that support distribution and supply chain goals. This includes designing efficient routing plans, monitoring vehicle utilisation, and deploying resources to meet demand peaks. The manager will supervise operations in depots and liaise with warehouse teams to coordinate loading and dispatch activities.</p>
<p>Key responsibilities include ensuring all vehicles are maintained and licensed, managing driver rotas and training, and maintaining accurate transport records. The role requires regular analysis of performance metrics such as cost per mile, on-time delivery and fuel consumption, followed by targeted actions to improve outcomes. The manager will lead cost-saving initiatives and negotiate commercial terms with carriers and service providers.</p>
<p>The successful candidate will ensure compliance with transport legislation, health and safety standards and company policies. They will implement accident reduction programmes and cultivate a culture of safety and accountability among drivers and transport staff. Reporting to senior management, the post holder will prepare regular operational reports and present recommendations to support decision-making.</p>
<h2>Transportation Manager Duties and Responsibilities</h2>
<ul>
<li>Plan, schedule and monitor daily transport operations and routes</li>
<li>Manage and develop drivers, including recruitment, training and performance reviews</li>
<li>Maintain fleet availability and oversee vehicle maintenance programmes</li>
<li>Ensure compliance with road transport regulations and health and safety legislation</li>
<li>Optimise fuel usage and control transport costs through analysis and initiatives</li>
<li>Negotiate contracts and rates with carriers and third-party logistics providers</li>
<li>Prepare and present operational and financial reports to senior management</li>
<li>Implement and monitor transport policies, procedures and best practices</li>
<li>Manage accident investigations and implement corrective actions</li>
<li>Coordinate with warehousing and customer service teams to meet delivery targets</li>
<li>Use transport management systems to schedule, track and report movements</li>
</ul>
<h2>Transportation Manager Requirements and Qualifications</h2>
<ul>
<li>Proven experience in transport, logistics or fleet management</li>
<li>Strong knowledge of transport legislation and driver hours rules</li>
<li>Experience with transport management systems and route planning tools</li>
<li>Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills</li>
<li>Analytical skills with experience in performance metrics and cost control</li>
<li>Full UK driving licence and willingness to visit depots and sites</li>
<li>A relevant qualification in logistics, supply chain or business management is desirable</li>
<li>Ability to manage budgets and negotiate with suppliers</li>
<li>Commitment to a safety and continuous improvement culture</li>
</ul>